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What Does an American Lady Butterfly Look Like?
The American lady butterfly has wings that show a mixed pattern of mostly orange from above, including a small white spot within the orange. Forewings also feature a black patch and a white bar at the wing’s edge. The underside of its hindwings has two large, dark eyespots, which sets it apart from the painted lady. The butterfly’s wingspan measures 1 3/4 to 2 5/8 inches.
Discover fascinating butterfly facts you didn’t know.
Range and Habitat
Look for these butterflies in open areas, including fields and gardens, across most of the U.S. and southern Canada.
Host Plants
Adult butterflies lay pale green eggs on host plants from the Asteraceae family, including sweet everlasting, ironweed and pussytoes.
These are the top 10 butterfly host plants to attract pollinators.
American Lady Caterpillar
Coloring on the American lady caterpillar varies, but it is typically yellow or black with bands wrapping around. Look for white spots on abdominal segments and large spines accented by reddish bases.
American Lady vs Painted Lady
At first glance, American lady and painted lady butterflies look similar. However, there are a few distinct differences that help distinguish them from each other. For the American lady, check for two large, bold eyespots on the underside of each hindwing.
If there are more spots on the hindwing, you’ve likely spotted a painted lady instead. The painted lady’s hindwings have four spots, rather than two. In addition, keep an eye out for a small white spot within the orange patch. It’s a key field mark of the American lady’s that the painted lady lacks.
