large cabbage white

butterfly

Also known as: Pieris brassicae

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Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

The large cabbage white (Pieris brassicae) is a species of butterfly found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Its larvae are known to feed on cabbage and other plants in the mustard family, making them significant economic pests that can devastate crops.1

These butterflies are characterized by their white wings, which feature black spots and a black band on the wingtips. Unlike the small cabbage white, which lays its eggs individually, the large cabbage white deposits its eggs in clusters. Control of these pest populations often relies on insecticides, though resistance to these chemicals is becoming more common.1

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cabbage white
The large cabbage white (P. brassicae) is found throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It features large black spots with a black band on the tip of its white wings and lays its eggs in characteristic clusters.
Read More
The large cabbage white (P. brassicae) is found throughout Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It features large black spots with a black band on the tip of its white wings and lays its eggs in characteristic clusters.
Read More