Small White
Common NameSmall White
Scientific NamePieris rapae
FamilyPieridae
SubfamilyPierinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatGardens, agricultural fields, meadows, urban areas, disturbed habitats
Geographic RangeHolarctic, introduced worldwide (North America, Australia, New Zealand)
Host Plantscabbage, broccoli, kale, mustard, nasturtium
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with a faint yellow stripe. Pupae are typically green or brown and overwinter.
Identification TipsDistinguished from the Large White (*Pieris brassicae*) by its smaller size and fewer, less prominent black markings. Distinguished from the Green-veined White (*Pieris napi*) by the lack of prominent dark veining on the underside hindwings.
Description
A small to medium-sized white butterfly with one or two distinct black spots on the forewings of the female, and a dark grey or black tip on the forewing. Males typically have one spot or none.
