Noctuidae

73.058 Mullein Moth Cucullia verbasci (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common

Similar species: Striped Lychnis Cucullia lychnitis and Water Betony Cucullia scrophulariae can only reliably be separated from this species by checking the genitalia, unless reared through from a larva.

Forewing: 19 to 24mm

Habitats: Disturbed areas on calcareous downland, dry grassland, breckland, quarries, road verges, railway sidings, shingle beaches, woodland rides and recent cleared woodland and gardens.

Habits: The moth flies from dusk when it nectars at flowers. It occasionally comes to light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds throughout the day and night on the leaves of Great Mullein, Dark Mullein, other mulleins, Water Figwort, Common Figwort and the leaves of Buddleia. It pupates in a tough soil-covered cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Dense-flowered Mullein and Moth Mullein.