The adult moth is variable in patterning and coloration with a wingspan of 30 to 38 mm. The forewings of the velvetbean caterpillar moth vary from ash gray, light yellowish-brown, or dark reddish brown. The hind wings are light brown with a row of light colored spots near the margin. A dark diagonal line extends across both sets of wings when the wings are fully extended. Adult velvetbean caterpillars feed at night with peak feeding from sundown until dusk.
Legumes are the preferred host plant of the velvetbean caterpillar.
Damage Velvetbean caterpillar larvae cause damage by consuming foliage. After the second instar the velvetbean caterpillar consumes the entire leaf. The velvetbean caterpillar may also attack tender stems, buds, and small bean pods. Natural Enemies Several species of parasitoids affect the velvetbean caterpillar. Predominant parasitoids may vary from year to year and from location to location.