One of the more tropical species in the United States, the Malachite is a beautiful green butterfly.
It is found in the most extreme southern part of the most southern states of the country.
Its host plants are Green Shrimp Blechum pyramidatum and it is said to also use Yerba Maravilla Ruellia coccinea as a host.
We do not advise planting Green Shrimp in your yard or garden. It is one of the most aggressive plants we know. It can fling seed over 6′ from where it is growing. In two or three years, a 4″ potted plant can cover over 100 square feet.
Adult Malachite butterflies drink flower nectar and from rotting fruit.
Butterfly Fun Facts 