Southern Purple Mint Moth
Common NameSouthern Purple Mint Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta laticlavia
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, purple
HabitatMeadows, open woodlands, gardens, areas with mint host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsMonarda, Pycnanthemum, other Lamiaceae (mint family)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae). The species has multiple broods per year, with adults active throughout the warmer months.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique purplish-red and orange coloration, particularly the irregular orange blotches on both forewings and hindwings. Often observed flying during the day near its mint host plants.
Description
A small, vibrant moth with purplish-red wings prominently marked with irregular, bright orange patches. The head and thorax are also orange.
