The Henry’s Elfin is a small, brown, tailed butterfly. It is sometimes known as the “Woodland Elfin”. The underwing surfaces are brown and distinctly two-toned. The outer half is much lighter brown in color. There is gray frosting along the outer margin. There is a short, stubby tail.

 

“Henry’s Elfin” by John Flannery, licensed under (CC BY-ND 2.0)

 

Henry’s Elfin Facts

Butterfly Family: Gossamer-Winged (Lycaenidae)

Butterfly Subfamily: Theclinae

Butterfly Wingspan: 1 – 1 1/4 inches

Butterfly Habitat: Edges and openings in barrens and near pine or pine-oak woodland

 

Henry’s Elfin Host and Nectar Plants

Host Plants:

• Eastern Redbud
• Fire Cherry
• American Plum
• Wild Plum
• Black Cherry
• Lowbush Blueberries
• Highbush Blueberries
• Black Huckleberry
• Yaupon
• American Holly

Nectar Plants:

• Willows
• Glade Cress
• Sumac
• Hawthorn