Stained-back Leafroller Moth
Common NameStained-back Leafroller Moth
Scientific NameSparganothis sulfureana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorscreamy white, orange-brown, dark brown
HabitatFields, meadows, gardens, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, extending west to the Great Plains and south to Florida, and into parts of Canada
Host Plantsapple, oak, willow, clover, goldenrod, blueberry, rose
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous leafrollers, feeding inside rolled leaves of a wide variety of herbaceous and woody plants. They pupate within the rolled leaf or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive, irregular reddish-brown to orange-brown 'stained' patch on the pale forewings, which can vary in intensity and shape but is usually quite prominent.
Description
A small moth with creamy white to pale tan forewings featuring a prominent, irregular reddish-brown to orange-brown patch that often resembles a stain or blotch in the center, sometimes outlined in white.
