The larvae feed within the stems of "Hypericum perforatum". Another alternative that has been researched is the use of St. John's wort ("Hypericum perforatum"). When generalist insects feed on "Hypericum perforatum", 30-100% more naphthodianthrones are produced, repelling the insects. The larvae feed on leaves of "Hypericon" species, mainly of "Hypericum perforatum" and "Hypericum maculatum". St John's wort, "Hypericum perforatum", is a flowering plant in the family Hypericaceae.