Juniper Hairstreak
Callophrys gryneus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Juniper Hairstreak is known for its metallic green wing coloration.
Host plants
Juniper Hairstreak caterpillars can only develop on their larval host plants. Plant one of these natives and you can host the full life cycle in your own yard (host plant associations per the Xerces Society (opens in new tab)).
Want Juniper Hairstreak in your yard? Open Ashe Juniper in Pollinator Patch and plan an HOA-friendly garden around it for your region.
Family
Lycaenidae
Wingspan
25–35 mm
Active
March through June
Range
TX, AZ, CO, ND and 32 more states
How to identify it
Look for a small green butterfly with white and brown lines across its hindwings, typically resting with wings closed.
Good to know
- Males perch on juniper branches to attract females
- Larvae resemble bird droppings as a camouflage strategy
Common questions
- What do Juniper Hairstreak caterpillars eat?
- Juniper Hairstreak caterpillars feed on Juniperus ashei and Juniperus virginiana. These are the larval host plants the caterpillars must have to develop, per the Xerces Society and host plant records compiled from GBIF and iNaturalist.
- Where do Juniper Hairstreak live?
- Juniper Hairstreak is found across TX, AZ, CO, ND and 32 more states.
- When are Juniper Hairstreak active?
- Adult Juniper Hairstreak are typically on the wing from March through June.
Range and life-history data compiled from iNaturalist, GBIF, and the Xerces Society. Photo licensed cc-by-nc.