Water Geranium Bronze
Common NameWater Geranium Bronze
Scientific NameCacyreus marshalli
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyPolyommatinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, purple, white
HabitatGardens, urban areas, parks, disturbed areas with host plants
Geographic RangeNative to Southern Africa; invasive in Europe (Mediterranean region, spreading north) and parts of the UK.
Host PlantsGeraniums, Pelargoniums
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, typically April to October in temperate regions, year-round in warmer climates
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on flower buds or young leaves of geraniums. Larvae bore into stems and flower buds, pupating within the plant or on the ground. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the iridescent purplish-brown sheen on the upperside, and the intricate pattern of wavy brown and white lines on the underside of the hindwings, often accompanied by a fine tail.
Description
A small butterfly with iridescent purplish-brown uppersides and distinctively patterned undersides featuring wavy brown and white lines, often with a small tail on the hindwing.
