English Swallowtail Papilio machaon britannicus  larvae

This unique race, unlike its European counterpart, lives only in fenland and it now occurs only on certain Norfolk Broads. The butterfly's markings are distinctly darker and the colouring richer. Larvae are easy to rear on Fennel, Carrot tops, the flowers of Parsnip (wild and cultivated) or on its fenland food plant Milk Parsley Peucedanum palustre. There is a partial second brood in late summer. Winter is passed in the pupal stage. This is one of the most beautiful of our butterflies, certainly Britain's largest, and a joy to rear.  Demand is high. 

First available May/June
 

Ten larvae English Swallowtail £12.95