21 Best Trees Suitable For USDA Zone 7

USDA Hardiness Zone 7 is characterized by moderate winters and warm, often humid, growing seasons. The average minimum winter temperatures range from 0°F to 10°F (-17.8°C to -12.2°C). These conditions allow many deciduous and evergreen trees to thrive, including a mix of temperate hardwoods, ornamental flowering trees, and subtropical-adapted species in the southern portions of … Read more

Death’s-head Hawk Moth (Acherontia atropos): Identification & Life Cycle

Classification The Death’s-head Hawk Moth (Acherontia atropos) belongs to the family Sphingidae, commonly known as hawk moths or sphinx moths, which are powerful fliers with streamlined bodies. It is part of the genus Acherontia, which includes three species, all named for their association with death symbolism. The name derives from the skull-like pattern on the … Read more

Emperor Moth (Saturnia pavonia): Identification & Life Cycle

Classification The Emperor Moth (Saturnia pavonia) belongs to the family Saturniidae, a group known as giant silk moths, which are famous for their large size and eye-catching wing patterns. It is part of the genus Saturnia within the order Lepidoptera, which encompasses all moths and butterflies. This species is one of Europe’s most striking native … Read more

Cecropia Moth (Hyalophora cecropia): Identification & Life Cycle

Classification The Cecropia Moth (Hyalophora cecropia) belongs to the family Saturniidae, commonly referred to as giant silk moths. It is part of the genus Hyalophora within the order Lepidoptera, which includes all moths and butterflies. This species is one of North America’s largest native moths and is closely related to other prominent giant silk moths … Read more

Peppered Moth (Biston betularia): Identification & Life Cycle

Classification The Peppered Moth (Biston betularia) is a member of the family Geometridae, commonly known as geometer moths, which are named for the “measuring” motion of their caterpillars. It belongs to the genus Biston within the order Lepidoptera, which includes all moths and butterflies. This species is notable in evolutionary biology studies for its color … Read more

Silver Y Moth (Autographa gamma): Identification & Identification

Classification The Silver Y Moth (Autographa gamma) belongs to the family Noctuidae, commonly referred to as owlet moths. It is part of the genus Autographa, which includes many species of small to medium-sized moths. This species is classified within the order Lepidoptera, sharing this group with butterflies and other moths. Its classification reflects its nocturnal … Read more

Hummingbird Moth (Hemaris thysbe): Identification & Life Cycle

Classification The Hummingbird Moth (Hemaris thysbe) belongs to the family Sphingidae, which includes hawk moths known for their fast flight and hovering capabilities. It is part of the genus Hemaris, a group of moths often referred to as “clearwing” or “hummingbird-like” moths due to their distinctive transparent wing sections and bird-like flight behavior. This classification … Read more