Dutchman’s Breeches + Orange Sulfur Butterfly

In the same family as the bleeding heart plant, Dutchman’s breeches are early spring ‘bloomers.’ They bloom from April to May when the sunlight begins to hit the woodland floor before the tall tree canopies fill in. Like many of these spring native perennials, they’re a source of nectar for emerging pollinators. Grow to about 12 inches tall and go dormant by early summer. Dutchman’s breeches is one of many plants whose seeds are spread by ants, a process called myrmecochory.

From National Park Service: “Orange sulphurs breed in the spring through late summer, producing up to 4 broods. Males patrol for females, looking for the characteristically female ultraviolet light absorbance on the hind wings that will distinguish her from a male of the species whose wings, on the contrary, reflect ultraviolet light. The pair join by the tips of the abdomens to mate. Females choose a male that by appearance (UV reflection) and smell (pheromones) likely offers the best spermatophore (package of sperm plus nutrients). The female lays one tiny white (later becoming orange-red), spindle-shaped egg at a time on vegetation—typically vetch, clover, alfalfa, and other pea family plants. This host plant supports the larvae that hatch 4–5 days later.”

Original mixed media on raw stretched canvas with maple float frame.

*This painting is available at the Rourke Art Gallery & Museum, please reach out or visit the museum to purchase*
521 Main Ave
Moorhead, MN
218-236-8861
https://www.therourke.org