Three-lined Flower Moth
Common NameThree-lined Flower Moth
Scientific NameSchinia trifascia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale green, darker green
HabitatOpen fields, prairies, disturbed areas, roadsides, and other habitats where ragweed grows.
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to the Great Plains.
Host PlantsAmbrosia trifida (Giant Ragweed), Ambrosia artemisiifolia (Common Ragweed)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are specialized feeders on the flowers and developing seeds of ragweed (Ambrosia spp.), often cryptically colored. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the three wavy, dark green bands on a lighter green background on the forewings. Its presence near ragweed plants is a strong indicator.
Description
A small, robust moth with pale green forewings distinctly marked by three wavy, darker green transverse bands. The hindwings are typically plain pale gray or whitish.
