Unlike insects that feed on pollen, butterflies tend to seek out the nectar hidden inside flower heads. They have a long tongue-like feature called a proboscis which enables them to gather this sugar-rich food source from its reservoir. Plants that appeal to butterflies often have trumpet-shaped blossoms. Their favorite species are those with large clusters of small, tubular nectar-filled florets.
Some butterfly-friendly plants will be more suitable for your garden than others. Be sure to cultivate species recommended for the climate, soil type and available sunlight. Common garden species that are attractive to butterflies include sunflowers, cone flowers, marigolds, daisies, zinnias, poppies, lilies and asters.
Purpletop vervain (Verbena bonariensis) is attractive and easy to propagate. Growing up to four feet tall, it will flower from seed in the first year and self-seed after that. Its sweet-smelling, lavender to bright purple clusters of flowers provide a nectar feast for butterflies and bees,
The magnificent black and orange Monarch, also known as the Milkweed Butterfly, is a familiar sight in many parts of the US as it migrates between Canada and Mexico. It lays eggs on various species of milkweed, upon which the larvae feed when hatched. By growing the Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) in your garden, you can support the Monarch lifecycle. The clusters of yellow or orange flowers may also attract Queen butterflies and hummingbirds.
Members of the Lepidoptera family are often found feeding on the Buddleja, commonly known as the butterfly bush. There are many garden varieties in a range of sizes from compact shrubs to small trees. Available flower colors include shades of pink, red, yellow, blue, purple, black and white. Buddlejas tend to be easy to grow and care for and have become a staple of butterfly gardening.
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