European Swallowtail machaon gorganus 5 summer pupae

European Swallowtail Papilio machaon gorganus

Summer Swallowtail pupae produce adults in 2-4 weeks. A large and truly magnificent butterfly, as big as any in Europe.

Lay in the emerging cage on a base such as coir or greengrocer's imitation grass, that helps to maintain moisture.

The adults need nectar flowers and growing tender fronds of foodplant. In summer they also lay on the umbelliferous flowers of the foodplant.

The larvae are very easy to rear on Fennel, Carrot leaves and Parsnip leaves and flowers (wild and cultivated). One of the most attractive butterfly larvae and a joy to rear!