Hackberry Emperor

Asterocampa celtis

This species and the Tawny Emperor are both closely associated with their host plant, Hackberry (Celtis occidentalis). Wherever you find this tree growing, especially in the southern third of the state, you may find either of these two species.

Identifying characteristics

Above, the Hackberry Emperor varies from a grayish to orange brown background color with darker tips and a variety of distinct white spots. The front wing has one or two spots in the submargin and one cell bar in the front wing is broken. Below, this species is light brown and somewhat resembles the Satyrs, with a very distinct row of eyespots.

Similar species

The Tawny Emperor is very similar and, like the Hackberry, is somewhat variable in its coloration. The Tawny Emperor above has two solid cell bars and lacks the submarginal spots of the Hackberry.

Habitat

Rich woods or parks where Hackberry grows.

Flight

Two flights in Wisconsin. Late June and then in August.

Abundance

The Hackberry Emperor can be very common where Hackberry trees are present. They are therefore much more likely to be found in the southern third of the state.

Early Hackberry Emperor Sightings

Date	County	Reported by
May 29, 2012	Grant	Karl and Dorothy Legler
May 31, 2007	Grant	Todd Sima
Jun 1, 2007	Iowa	Ann Thering
Jun 1, 2018	Dane	Joan Vennie
Jun 2, 2012	Rock	Karl and Dorothy Legler

Locations