The Flame
Common NameThe Flame
Scientific NamePhlogophora meticulosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark-brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Rumex, Rubus, Lactuca, various herbaceous plants and shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to October (bivoltine or trivoltine)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on a wide range of plants. They overwinter as larvae or pupae, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsThe unique crinkled, folded forewing shape resembling a dead leaf is highly diagnostic. While often having pinkish-green hues, some individuals, like this one, are more muted brown, but the wing structure remains key.
Description
A medium-sized moth with distinctively crinkled, folded forewings that give it a withered leaf appearance, typically displaying shades of brown and tan with darker markings.
