The
Charaxinae, the
leafwings, are a
nymphalid subfamily of
butterflies that includes about 400
species, inhabiting mainly the tropics, although some species extend into temperate regions in
North America,
Europe,
China, and southern
Australia. Significant variations exist between the species. For example, some are medium-sized and bright orange above, but mottled gray or brown below. This underwing coloration helps them resemble a dead leaf when they are at rest, as they keep their wings closed. With relatively few exceptions, the hind wings of the members of this subfamily have jagged edges.