What is the scientific name of the luna moth?

The scientific name of the luna moth is Actias luna.

This large North American saturniid moth is recognized by its pale green wings, eyespots, and long hindwing tails. The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, when it was included in the foundational tenth edition of Systema Naturae.

Luna moth caterpillars feed on leaves of several tree species, including walnut, hickory, sweet gum, and persimmon. After pupation, the adult emerges with a short life devoted primarily to mating and egg-laying.

The name “luna” refers to the Moon, matching the moth’s nocturnal habits and soft, moonlike coloration. It is often confused with the Asian atlas moth because both are large, but they belong to different genera and continents. Actias luna is native to North America, while Attacus atlas is native to Asia.