Sent when ready in June or July. Commonly known as the plain tiger, or african monarch, danaus chrysipus is very similar in appearance to its larger cousin danaus plexipus. The female plain tiger lays her eggs on the underside of asclepias (milkweed) and one egg is laid per leaf to avoid larval overcrowding. The resulting distinctive black white and yellow striped caterpillars are afforded excellent protection from predators due to the poisons accumalated from their host plant as they feed.
In captivity, larvae can be reared successfully on Asclepias currassavica (milkweed) which is very easy to grow from seed, but ensure you have plenty on hand as the larvae have voracious appetites. A lovely species that will make a fine addition to any hot house display. European orders are sent entirely at the customers' own risk and will be sent as ova wherever possible.
Larval foodplants: asclepias currassavica
Breeding and rearing: greenhouse, conservatories, polytunnels or indoor cages with artificial heat and light.
