Mullein Moth Caterpillar

Natural Habitat

Gardens, waste ground, and coastal areas where food plants like Mullein or Buddleia are present

Diet & Feeding

Primary diet consists of the leaves and flowers of Mullein (Verbascum) and Buddleia (Butterfly Bush)

Behavior Patterns

Active during the day (diurnal), these caterpillars are often conspicuous and make little effort to hide; they pupate in a strong underground cocoon

Risks & Benefits

They can significantly defoliate ornamental garden plants like Buddleia, but as adults, they serve as pollinators and are part of the local biodiversity

Identified on: 6/12/2026