465 Plutella porrectella
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Wingspan 14-17 mm.This close relative of the familiar Diamond-back Moth (Plutella xylostella) is slightly larger and more striated in appearance. The antennae have three darkish rings toward the tip.
It is fairly common in Britain in the vicinity of the foodplant. It flies during May and again in July to August. It is nocturnal and is attracted to light, and can be easily disturbed from the foodplant by day.
The larval foodplant is Dame's violet (Hesperis matronalis), also known as Sweet rocket or Damask violet. The larvae feed in April-May and June-July, distorting or connecting the leaves with a small amount of silk.
It pupates in a distinctive white silk cocoon with a large open mesh, on the underside of a leaf.
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