Lime Butterfly
About the Lime Butterfly in Singapore
Last updated 29 May 2026
The Lime Butterfly (Papilio demoleus malayanus) is a large butterfly that gets its name from the citrus host plants its caterpillar feeds on. They fly fast and in erratic patterns, occasionally stopping to sunbathe with their wings opened flat.
Identifying features
Check out some of the identifying features of the Lime Butterfly below.
The Lime Butterfly has a mostly black upperside with a yellow-white band across it, and a predominantly yellow underside with black markings. An orange-red spot is observable on its hindwing, on both sides.
Interested to learn more about how to identify Butterflies? Check out our simple guide on identifying Butterflies!
Habitat and ecology
Common across Singapore, the Lime Butterfly can be found in urban areas, parks, gardens and on the fringes of nature reserves.
Did you know?
The Lime Butterfly has also been observed to feed on some decorative Citrus plants commonly imported during the Chinese New Year period!
Join us at Butterfly Watch!
Enjoy spotting butterflies, or interested to learn more about the ones you see in our parks and gardens? Join us for the Butterfly Watch to collect valuable data about local species, which contributes to their conservation.
Learn more about the Lime Butterfly!
Curious about the Lime Butterfly? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.
