National Moth Week 2023 - The Tulip-tree Beauty Moth

Epimecis hortaria, also known as the Tulip-tree beauty, is one of the largest moth species of the Geometridae family. Found in the Ennominae subfamily (also the largest within Geometridae) this moth is predominantly found in eastern North America ranging from southern Canada to Florida and into Texas.

The Geometridae are famous for their inchworm caterpillars, some of which are serious agricultural pests. They can be seen flying from late March to early October in northern states; but in Florida, they can be on wing year round. Adults are nocturnal and are highly attracted to lights, much to the same extreme as imperial moths (a significant detriment to their populations in urban landscapes). It has a wingspan of 43–55 millimeters. There are two forms, one being "Dendraria" and the other being "Carbonaria" which correlate to patterns on their forewings (their subterminal line, specifically)

The immature caterpillars can be found feeding on deciduous trees, including Asimina triloba (American pawpaw), Populus (poplar) species, Sassafras albidum (sassafras), Liriodendron (Tulip tree), Lindera benzoin (spicebush), and Magnolia species. Larvae can vary in coloration from dark brown, to dusky orange, and even light green (found on Sassafras) depending on the host plant. The thick bodied caterpillar has a swollen third thoracic segment giving the inchworm a ‘neck hump’ look.

Representatives of Epimecis genus are excellent camouflage specialists, blending perfectly against tree trunks and other backgrounds. They can be hard to spot when resting which leads the author to believe that their superior concealment has contributed to a paucity of available information on the Tulip-tree beauty’s life cycle, and contributing to unfruitful hours towards a more detailed commentary.

"Discover beauty beyond butterflies"- Mark Kateli

Come celebrate moth awareness week collaboratively with National Moth Week and Florida Native Plant Society. Like and share your own experiences with us.


Caterpillar image courtesy of Andy Reago and Chrissy McClarren

Adult image courtesy of Judy Gallagher


Caption provided by FNPS President, Mark Kateli

Instagram: @markkateli | Facebook: Mark Kateli

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