Purple-shaded Gem
Common NamePurple-shaded Gem
Scientific NameEcliptopera silaceata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)28.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, pink, reddish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, fens, marshes, especially damp areas
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe and parts of Asia (Palearctic realm), also introduced to parts of North America
Host Plantsbedstraw
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on bedstraw species and are typically green or brownish. The species overwinters as a pupa, usually having two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic wavy transverse banding pattern on the forewings, often with a purplish or reddish-brown ground color and contrasting paler bands. Its size and typical Geometrid resting posture are also key.
Description
A medium-sized moth with reddish-brown to purplish-brown forewings marked with several distinct, wavy, paler pinkish or creamy transverse bands. Its body is furry and light brown.
