Wormwood Moth
Common NameWormwood Moth
Scientific NameCucullia absinthii
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyCuculliinae
Wingspan (mm)42
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatGardens, wasteland, dry grasslands, coastal areas, and other disturbed habitats where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia, and introduced to parts of North America.
Host PlantsArtemisia absinthium (Wormwood), Artemisia vulgaris (Mugwort), Tanacetum vulgare (Tansy)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are green with yellow stripes and black spots, feeding on the flowers and seeds of wormwood and related plants before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall grey and white cryptic pattern, the distinctive black streak on the forewing, and the 'hooded' appearance of the thorax when at rest.
Description
This moth has cryptically patterned grey and white forewings with a prominent black streak and scattered black spots, providing excellent camouflage.
