The Clouded Sulphur is a medium-sized butterfly and one of the most abundant species in North America, often called the “Common Sulphur.” It displays seasonal color variations, ranging from yellow to pale white. The dark wing markings also change with the seasons, becoming more pronounced during the cooler months of spring and fall.

 

“Clouded Sulphur” by Virginia Arboretum, licensed under (CC BY-ND 2.0)

 

Clouded Sulphur Facts

Butterfly Family: Whites and Sulphurs (Pieridae)

Butterfly Subfamily: Coliadinae

Butterfly Wingspan: 1 1/2 – 2 3/4 inches

Butterfly Habitat: Many different open areas, including fields, lawns, alfalfa and clover fields, road edges, and meadows

 

🪴 Host Plants

These are the plants where females lay eggs and caterpillars feed:

• Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

• Clover (Trifolium spp.)

• Vetch (Vicia spp.)

 

🌸 Nectar Plants

Adult Clouded Sulphur butterflies feed on nectar from a variety of native flowers:

• Asters (Symphyotrichum spp.)

• Blazing Star (Liatris spp.)

• Clover (Trifolium spp.)

• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)

• Milkweeds (Asclepias spp.)

• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

• Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)

• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)