Which butterfly is known scientifically as the common brimstone?

The butterfly commonly called the common brimstone is Gonepteryx rhamni.

This European and Asian butterfly is known for yellow males and paler, greenish-white females. Both sexes have angular wing shapes that resemble leaves, providing camouflage when the insect rests among vegetation. The species is especially associated with buckthorn plants, which serve as larval food plants.

Gonepteryx rhamni is one of the butterflies that can overwinter as an adult. Individuals may shelter through cold weather and emerge on mild days, allowing the species to appear very early in spring. Adults can also live for many months, unusually long for a butterfly.

The common brimstone should not be confused with the clouded yellow, Colias croceus, another yellow butterfly found in Europe. The brimstone’s pointed wing outline and leaf-like resting posture are useful identification clues.