Oidaematophorus eupatorii

(Fernald, 1891)
Joe-Pye Weed Plume Moth

Sort #: 1351 | P #: 630139 | MPG #: 6168 | PFG Page #: 128
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Larval feeding type: On the leaves
Larval substrate: Eutrochium maculatum* (Spotted Joe-Pye Weed), Eutrochium purpureum (Purple Joe-Pye Weed), Eutrochium dubium* (Coastal Plain Joe-Pye Weed)
Phenology: Adult: 7/02 to 8/06 (39 records)

Comment: Larva similar to H. elliottii (and can occur together), but is always a darker green, sometimes tinged purple. Hairs on the back can be black or white. Adult very characteristic, with dark brown scale tufts on the tibiae and the 5th segment of the abdomen is banded dark brown and often slightly enlarged.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Fairly widespread, common
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1930
Last Year Reported: 2026

Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Norfolk
Number of Records: 49