Gracillarioidea >> Gracillariidae >> Gracillariinae >> Caloptilia

Caloptilia violacella

(Clemens, 1860)

Larval feeding type: Initially a leaf-miner, then feeds within a leaf-roll in the shape of a cone. The first generation larvae often pupate along the edge of a leaf-cone.
Larval substrate: Cajanus cajan (Pigeon Pea), Desmodium marilandicum* (Smooth Small-leaved Tick-trefoil), Lespedeza capitata* (Round-headed Bush-clover), Lespedeza virginica* (Slender Bush-clover)
Phenology: Adult: 7/22 to 10/21 (5 records)

Status in MA (automated assessment): Restricted distribution, uncommon
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1941
Last Year Reported: 2025

Distribution by County: Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, Barnstable, Nantucket
Number of Records: 15