The red banded hairstreak (Calycopis cecrops) is a beautiful butterfly species that can be found in various regions. If you are interested in attracting this lovely butterfly to your garden, it is important to know its larval host plants. These are the plants on which the caterpillars of the red banded hairstreak feed and develop.
One of the larval host plants for the red banded hairstreak is the wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera). This shrub or small tree is native to North America and provides a food source for the caterpillars. Wax myrtle leaves are a preferred choice for the caterpillars to munch on and grow.
Another larval host plant for the red banded hairstreak is the dwarf sumac (Rhus copallina). This deciduous shrub is also native to North America and is known for its attractive fall foliage. The caterpillars of the red banded hairstreak can be found feeding on the leaves of the dwarf sumac.
Staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina) is another species of sumac that serves as a larval host plant for the red banded hairstreak. This ornamental shrub is known for its unique velvety branches and vibrant red seed heads. The caterpillars of the red banded hairstreak can be found feeding on the leaves of staghorn sumac.
Several species of oaks also serve as larval host plants for the red banded hairstreak. Oaks are widespread and diverse, providing ample opportunities for the caterpillars to find suitable food sources. The red banded hairstreak caterpillars can be found feeding on the leaves of oak trees, contributing to their growth and development.
It is worth noting that the red banded hairstreak is known to be adaptable and can utilize other plant species as larval host plants in certain regions. This means that in addition to the mentioned plants, there may be other local plants that can support the life cycle of the red banded hairstreak in specific areas.
In my personal experience, I have observed the red banded hairstreak caterpillars feeding on the leaves of wax myrtle in my backyard. It was a delightful sight to witness the caterpillars growing and eventually transforming into beautiful butterflies. Providing suitable larval host plants in your garden can greatly enhance its biodiversity and attract fascinating butterfly species like the red banded hairstreak.
To summarize, the larval host plants for the red banded hairstreak include wax myrtle, dwarf sumac, staghorn sumac, and several species of oaks. These plants provide the necessary food source for the caterpillars to grow and develop into adult butterflies. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a welcoming habitat for the red banded hairstreak and enjoy the beauty of this butterfly species.
