Description
There are 2 species of Acytolepis described in Sri Lanka, the Common Hedge Blue and Hampsons Hedge Blue. The occurrence of numerous intergrades between the two species supports the speculation that they are simply seasonal variations of one and the same species.

The Common Hedge Blue has a wingspan of 25-30 mm. In the male, the upper side is a shiny violet blue with a black border along the outer margin and a black apex. The hind wing has a prominent white patch on the upper side. The female has much less blue, more distinct white patches, and wider black marginal bands. Both sexes have a row of black submarginal spots on the upper side hind wing. The ground colour of the undersides is white with black spots and irregular markings, its submarginal row of spots is capped by a lunular gray line.

Similar species
There are a number of hedge blues that resemble each other. More information.

Status, distribution and habitat
An uncommon butterfly but widely distributed throughout the island in forested areas. Rarely seen in cultivated lands.

Habits
Its flight is weak and it often settles on low bushes and small trees. It basks in the sun and visits small wild flowers along forest glades. It often congregates in numbers on damp soil during hot weather.

Early stages
The larval host plant is Hiptage benghalensis.

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