Description

• The American lady is a medium-sized butterfly with wingspan between 1 3/4 inches and 2 5/8 inches, and is seen in gardens throughout the United States. The top of the wings are mostly orange, with black and white spots and edgings. A white spot in the orange section near the top edge of the upper wing is distinctive for this species. The underside of the wings is dull brown, with two large eye-spots near the bottom of the lower wings. The caterpillar is black, with yellowish-white stripes and white and red spots on the back. Black hairy tufts stick out along the sides.
  
  

Habitat and Range

• According to Iowa State University, the American lady is widely spread, inhabiting North America from Southern Canada through the entire United States, as well as the mountains of Central America and the Galapagos Islands. The American lady is commonly found in open, sunny areas with low-growing vegetation, such as meadows, vacant lots and beach dunes. It will visit gardens with preferred flowers and host plants. Adults spend the winter in southern, warmer areas, migrating north in the spring.
  
  

Life Cycle

• American lady butterflies usually produce two to three broods per year. Males will often perch on hilltops or low plants, waiting for females. Single eggs are laid on the top of host plants, including burdock, worm weed and ironwood. Eggs hatch in around seven days. The caterpillar will make a silk nest for protection, hiding inside during the day, and coming out at night to eat, according to University of Florida. After two weeks or so, the caterpillar will turn into a chrysalis, and reappear as a butterfly in two more weeks.
  
  

Attracting American Lady Butterflies

• To attract American lady butterflies to your yard, you must plant the flowers that are used as host plants for the caterpillar in their habitat, as well as flowers that the adult butterflies use for food. Asters are a particular favorite of the caterpillar, according to the University of Florida. Adults are attracted to goldenrod, asters, marigolds and vetch. Provide water for the butterflies by placing a shallow pan with water just covering the bottom, or by keeping a patch of gravel or pebbles moist. By recreating the open, meadow-like appearance of their preferred habitat, you can enjoy American lady butterflies in your garden.