Abstract: The developmental periods, mortality, reproduction, growth index and fitness index of the cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) were studied in the laboratory at 26°C and photoperiod 14 L:10 D on cotton seed, okra fruit, maize (ears of corn), castor bean, pea, bean and artificial diet. The developmental periods of larvae were found shortest on pea and artificial diet and longest on cotton seed and maize. Larval mortality percentage was high on maize followed by cotton seed. No significant differences were found between pupal periods. The pupal mortality was high on maize followed by cotton seed. The mean number of deposited eggs were high on pea (560 eggs/female) and low on cotton seed (350 eggs/female). No significant differences were found between hatchability percentages. The growth index and fitness index was highest on pea while the lowest on maize.