Malachite butterfly

Family: Nymphs (Nymphalidae)

Wingspan: 8.5- 10 cm

Host plant: Plants of the family Acanthaceae, especially species in the genus Ruellia

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Siproeta stelenes, more commonly known as the malachite butterfly, is a large and colorful butterfly that occurs in Central and South America, as well as in southern parts of the United States. The butterfly is easily recognized by its bright yellow to lime green fields on dark brown wings - a color pattern reminiscent of the mineral malachite, hence the name. The underside of the wings is more muted in color, which serves as camouflage when the butterfly is resting.

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