The upperside of the wings is black, without a band and with one row of red crescents along the hindwing margin.

[2][3] A full description is provided by Rothschild, W. and Jordan, K. (1906)[4] P. montezuma is found in dry forests from Mexico to Costa Rica, occurring from sea level to 700 m (2,300 ft).

It is rare in Costa Rica, being more common northward.

[5] Parides montezuma is a member of the ascanius species group[6] ("Fringe-spots white.

Hindwing with submarginal spots and usnally also diseal spots or dots, or a discal band; mostly with tail") A quadrate whitish spot in space 2 of the forewings is quite peculiar of the ascanius group[7] The members are The specific epithet honours the Aztec king Montezuma.