Tobacco Budworm Moth
Common NameTobacco Budworm Moth
Scientific NameHeliothis virescens
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Primary Colorspale green, tan, brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, South America
Host Plantstobacco, cotton, soybean, tomato, corn, various legumes
Flight PeriodApril to November (multiple generations)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as budworms, feed internally on the buds, flowers, and fruits of a wide range of host plants, causing significant agricultural damage. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic pale green to tan forewings with distinct oblique bands. Often found in agricultural settings where its host plants are present.
Description
A medium-sized moth with pale green to tan forewings marked by several oblique, darker brown or olive-green bands and subtle kidney-shaped spots. The hindwings are paler with a dark outer margin.
