A fairly common species in foothill canyons, reaching barely to mid-elevations. Usually in rocky sites in foothill woodland or chaparral, often commonest along roadsides where its host plants grow. Adults visit the flowers of the host (Wild Buckwheat of the Eriogonum nudum group) as well as (in some places) Woolly Sunflower (Eriophyllum lanatum complex), Dogbane, Milkweed, etc. Males are territorial perchers and often sit on or near the ground.

One brood in spring, late March-July (mostly May and June). This species occasionally occurs on serpentine but is not especially associated with it.