Distribution:

southern Africa, from southern Congo (RDC) and Kenya south to South Africa. The moths displayed here are from Malawi (Dzalanyama Forest)

Wingspan:

large, up to  15 cm

Season:

one flight annually (in Malawi peaking around the end of December and the first half of January). Pupal stage is very long

Food plants:

In Africa mostly Fabaceae (Brachystegia, Julbernardia, Acacia, Cassia, …). In captivity easy to rear on many woody Rosaceae (Prunus, Photinia, Malus, Crataegus, Rosa, even Rubus fruticosus, …) and also other woody Fabaceae (Robinia, …)

Rearing:

An easy species.  Keep warm (minimum room temperature), in spacious well ventilated plastic containers when young, but netted cages when they've reached the final instar The caterpillars tolerate company very well, but need some more space in the final instar. Keep dry (avoid condensation and wet leaves, do not spray).  Relatively fast growing. Ready to pupate within 6 to 7 weeks. When ready to pupate move to individual plastic containers lined with paper towels until they have pupated. Moths usually emerge  after a very long pupal stage, usually the next spring when temperatures are getting warmer again (April in the northern hemisphere).

Difficulties:

When reared on Prunus laurocerasus (and similar Prunus species) extra ventilation is required. When the cyanide fumes coming of the leaves accumulate in the container all caterpillars can suddenly die. With enough ventilation Prunus is as good as any other food plant.