The cabbage white is a medium-sized butterfly common throughout the Palearctic region (Europe, North Africa and temperate Asia). In Israel it is common throughout the country except for the extreme desert all year round, and it can also be seen on warm winter days. Its wingspan is up to about 55 mm. The female, in addition to the spots on the underside of the forewing, has two round spots also on the upper side of the forewing.
The female lays the eggs in large groups on cabbage and other crucifer species, as well as on nasturtium and caper. The egg is yellow.
The larvae that hatch from the eggs are yellowish green and have a dark head. In their first days they live together, and as they grow they disperse over the plant on which they live. The large larvae are yellow with many dark spots along their bodies. When they reach a size of about 40 mm, they pupate on the bush or near it.
The pupa is white, finely speckled with black, and is about 25 mm long. The pupal period depends greatly on the weather (from ten days in summer to two or three months in winter).