The Clouded Sulphur is a medium-sized butterfly, and it is one of the most abundant in North America. It is sometimes referred to as the “Common Sulphur”. It has seasonal color variations that range from white to yellow. The dark spots vary as well, being more pronounced during the cool months in 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

 

Clouded Sulphur Host and Nectar Plants

Host Plants:

• Beans
• Peas
• Alfalfa
• White Clover
• Red Clover
• Vetch
• Scotch Broom
• Yellow Wild Indigo

Nectar Plants:

• Nectar from various flowers
  • Clovers
  • Milkweeds
  • Dandelions
  • Thistles