20 Plants That Attract Butterflies to Your Garden: Top Picks

Butterflies bring beauty and life to any garden. Their presence can make your outdoor space a serene retreat.

Do you want to see more butterflies in your garden? Adding the right plants can help. Certain flowers and greenery attract these lovely insects. Butterflies are drawn to bright colors and sweet nectar. Creating a garden that invites them is easy and rewarding.

Not only do butterflies add charm, but they also help with pollination. This can improve the health of your garden. In this blog post, we will explore 20 plants that attract butterflies. These plants are easy to grow and maintain. With them, you can turn your garden into a butterfly haven. Get ready to enjoy a more vibrant and lively outdoor space!

Introduction To Butterfly Gardens

Butterfly gardens are a delightful addition to any landscape. They provide a vibrant and colorful sanctuary for butterflies and other pollinators. These gardens are not only beautiful but also beneficial for the environment. Creating a butterfly garden can be a rewarding experience for garden enthusiasts.

Benefits Of Butterfly Gardens

Butterfly gardens offer several advantages:

• Pollination: Butterflies are excellent pollinators. They help in the reproduction of plants.
• Beauty: Butterflies add a touch of elegance to your garden with their vibrant colors.
• Education: These gardens are great for learning about nature and ecosystems.
• Conservation: By planting butterfly-friendly plants, you support butterfly populations.

Choosing The Right Plants

Selecting the right plants is crucial for attracting butterflies:

1. Milkweed: Essential for monarch butterflies. They lay their eggs on it.
2. Lavender: A favorite for many butterfly species. It has a sweet fragrance.
3. Buddleia (Butterfly Bush): Attracts various butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
4. Phlox: Offers bright, fragrant flowers. Butterflies love them.
5. Zinnias: Easy to grow. They attract butterflies with their vibrant blooms.

Consider these plants to create a thriving butterfly garden. They will attract different butterfly species and make your garden a lively place.

Milkweed Varieties

Milkweed varieties are essential for attracting butterflies to your garden. These plants provide food and habitat for many butterfly species. Transform your garden into a butterfly haven with these beautiful and beneficial plants.

Milkweed is a wonderful plant for attracting butterflies to your garden. Different varieties of milkweed support the life cycle of butterflies, especially monarchs. Let’s explore some of the best milkweed varieties for your garden.

Common Milkweed

Common Milkweed is a native plant in many parts of North America. It grows well in sunny areas with well-drained soil. This plant can reach up to five feet tall. Its pinkish-purple flowers bloom in clusters. The fragrance attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Monarch butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves. The plant’s sap provides food for the caterpillars. Once they become butterflies, they feed on the nectar.

Swamp Milkweed

Swamp Milkweed prefers moist, wet areas. It grows well near ponds or in rain gardens. The plant can reach up to four feet tall. Its flowers are a lovely pink or mauve color. This variety blooms later than common milkweed. Butterflies love it for its nectar. Monarchs use it for laying eggs. The caterpillars feed on the leaves. The plant is also a host to other pollinators.

Coneflower Choices

Planting coneflowers in your garden can attract butterflies. Coneflowers are easy to grow. They come in many colors and types. Two popular choices are Purple Coneflower and Yellow Coneflower.

Purple Coneflower

Purple Coneflower, also known as Echinacea purpurea, is a favorite of butterflies. Its bright purple petals and large central cone make it eye-catching. This plant grows well in sunny spots. It also tolerates drought, making it low-maintenance. Purple Coneflower blooms from summer to early fall. Butterflies love its nectar, making it a great addition to any garden.

Yellow Coneflower

Yellow Coneflower, or Echinacea paradoxa, adds a sunny touch to your garden. Its yellow petals stand out against green leaves. Like Purple Coneflower, it attracts many butterflies. This plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Yellow Coneflower blooms in the summer. It is also drought-tolerant. This makes it an excellent choice for butterfly gardens.

Butterfly Bush Options

Butterfly bushes are a must-have for any garden that aims to attract butterflies. They are vibrant, hardy, and bloom profusely. These plants are not only beautiful but also serve as a nectar source for butterflies. Here are some amazing butterfly bush options to consider for your garden.

Nanho Blue

The Nanho Blue butterfly bush is known for its stunning blue-violet flowers. These blossoms are fragrant and attract a variety of butterflies. The plant grows up to 5 feet tall and prefers well-drained soil. Its long blooming season extends from summer to fall.

Here are some key features of Nanho Blue:

• Height: 4-5 feet
• Flower Color: Blue-violet
• Blooming Season: Summer to fall
• Soil Type: Well-drained

Black Knight

The Black Knight butterfly bush is another excellent choice. It features deep purple flowers that are highly attractive to butterflies. This variety can grow up to 6 feet tall. The Black Knight thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Key features of Black Knight include:

• Height: 5-6 feet
• Flower Color: Deep purple
• Blooming Season: Summer to fall
• Soil Type: Well-drained

Both Nanho Blue and Black Knight are excellent options for creating a butterfly-friendly garden. They are easy to care for and provide a stunning visual display.

Lantana Selections

Butterflies love Lantana selections for their bright, nectar-rich flowers. These plants are perfect for anyone wanting to attract these beautiful insects to their garden. Lantana is also easy to care for and can thrive in various conditions. Below, we explore two popular Lantana varieties: Miss Huff and New Gold.

Miss Huff

Miss Huff is a cold-hardy Lantana variety. It can survive in areas with mild winters. This plant produces clusters of multicolored flowers. The blooms often come in shades of pink, orange, and yellow. Butterflies find these colors irresistible. Miss Huff grows well in full sun. It can reach up to 6 feet tall. This plant is also drought-tolerant. Once established, it requires minimal watering. Gardeners love Miss Huff for its long blooming season. It flowers from late spring until the first frost.

New Gold

New Gold is another excellent choice for attracting butterflies. This Lantana variety is known for its bright, golden-yellow flowers. The blooms form in dense clusters. Butterflies are drawn to the vibrant colors and abundant nectar. New Gold is a low-growing plant. It typically reaches about 1 to 2 feet in height. This makes it perfect for borders or as ground cover. Like Miss Huff, New Gold thrives in full sun. It is also drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance. Gardeners appreciate its long-lasting blooms. New Gold flowers from spring through fall.

Feature	Miss Huff	New Gold
Flower Colors	Pink, Orange, Yellow	Golden-Yellow
Height	Up to 6 feet	1 to 2 feet
Bloom Season	Late Spring to First Frost	Spring through Fall
Sunlight	Full Sun	Full Sun
Water Needs	Minimal, Drought-Tolerant	Minimal, Drought-Tolerant

Adding Miss Huff and New Gold to your garden will attract butterflies. These Lantana selections are easy to grow and maintain. Their bright flowers will add beauty to your outdoor space.

Zinnia Varieties

Zinnia varieties are perfect for attracting butterflies to your garden. Their bright and colorful blooms are irresistible. Enjoy a lively garden filled with fluttering wings.

Zinnias are vibrant flowers that attract butterflies. These flowers come in many colors. They are easy to grow and care for. Zinnias bloom all summer long. Two popular series are Profusion and Zahara.

Profusion Series

The Profusion series is known for its hardiness. These zinnias resist disease and heat. They thrive in full sun. The blooms are small but abundant. Profusion zinnias come in many colors. Choose from red, orange, white, and more. They grow well in garden beds and containers. Butterflies love their bright colors.

Zahara Series

Zahara zinnias are another great choice. They are drought-resistant and tough. These flowers also resist disease. Zahara zinnias have large, bold blooms. They come in bright colors like yellow, pink, and coral. These zinnias need full sun to thrive. Plant them in your garden or pots. Butterflies are drawn to their vibrant hues. “`

Aster Species

Aster species are known for their vibrant colors and long blooming seasons. These plants attract butterflies to your garden, providing nectar and habitat. They are easy to grow and maintain. Let’s explore two popular varieties.

New England Aster

The New England Aster boasts bright purple flowers with yellow centers. It blooms from late summer to fall. This plant can grow up to six feet tall. Butterflies love its abundant nectar. Plant it in full sun for best results. It thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Pruning after the first bloom encourages more flowers.

Smooth Aster

Smooth Aster features delicate blue or violet flowers. It blooms late in the season, often until the first frost. This plant reaches up to three feet in height. Butterflies flock to its rich nectar. Smooth Aster prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. It grows well in a variety of soils, including dry and rocky ones. Regular watering helps it thrive.

Joe Pye Weed Types

Joe Pye Weed is a fantastic plant for attracting butterflies to your garden. These plants are native to North America and thrive in moist, sunny conditions. They are known for their tall, sturdy stems and large clusters of pink or purple flowers. Below, we will explore some popular types of Joe Pye Weed that you can add to your butterfly garden.

Little Joe

Little Joe is a compact variety of Joe Pye Weed. It usually grows to about 3 to 4 feet tall. This makes it a great choice for smaller gardens or tight spaces. The plant features lovely purplish-pink flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. Butterflies are drawn to these blossoms, making Little Joe a must-have for butterfly enthusiasts.

Gateway

Gateway is another popular type of Joe Pye Weed. This variety is slightly taller, reaching heights of 4 to 6 feet. Gateway has larger flower clusters compared to Little Joe. The flowers are a deep pink color and attract a wide range of butterflies. Plant Gateway in the back of your garden beds for a striking display that will surely draw attention.

Verbena Choices

Verbena plants are excellent for attracting butterflies to your garden. Their bright flowers and sweet nectar make them a favorite. There are many varieties of verbena, each offering unique qualities. Here, we explore two popular choices: Homestead Purple and Buenos Aires.

Homestead Purple

Homestead Purple is a vibrant verbena variety. Its deep purple flowers stand out in any garden. This plant blooms from spring to fall, providing a long-lasting food source for butterflies.

Homestead Purple grows in low mounds, making it perfect for borders and ground cover. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Butterflies love its rich nectar, making your garden a butterfly haven.

Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires verbena, also known as Verbena bonariensis, is another butterfly magnet. It has tall, slender stems topped with clusters of tiny purple flowers. These flowers bloom from summer to fall.

Buenos Aires verbena can reach up to six feet in height. Its airy structure allows it to blend well with other plants. This variety prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Its nectar-rich flowers attract many butterfly species to your garden.

Phlox Varieties

Phlox varieties are a wonderful addition to any garden. They are well-known for attracting butterflies with their vibrant colors and sweet fragrance. These plants come in many types, each adding unique beauty to your garden. Let’s explore two popular phlox varieties: Garden Phlox and Creeping Phlox.

Garden Phlox

Garden Phlox is a favorite among gardeners. It is known for its tall, upright stems and large clusters of flowers. These flowers come in a range of colors like pink, white, red, and purple. Garden Phlox blooms from mid-summer to early fall, providing a long-lasting nectar source for butterflies.

Here are some key features of Garden Phlox:

• Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Spread: 1 to 2 feet
• Bloom Time: Summer to early fall
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained

This plant requires regular watering but avoid wetting the foliage to prevent mildew. Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers. Garden Phlox is an excellent choice for borders and butterfly gardens.

Creeping Phlox

Creeping Phlox is a low-growing, spreading variety. It forms a beautiful carpet of color in early spring. The flowers are small, star-shaped, and come in shades of pink, white, blue, and purple. Creeping Phlox is perfect for ground cover, rock gardens, and slopes.

Key features of Creeping Phlox include:

• Height: 6 to 12 inches
• Spread: 12 to 24 inches
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy

Creeping Phlox is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. Trimming back the plants after blooming promotes a second flush of flowers. This variety is excellent for attracting butterflies and adding early spring color to your garden.

Goldenrod Options

Butterflies love Goldenrod. This plant offers nectar late in the season. Goldenrod is a showstopper. It adds beauty and attracts butterflies. Let’s explore some popular Goldenrod options for your garden.

Fireworks

Fireworks Goldenrod lives up to its name. It bursts with tiny yellow flowers. The blooms look like a display of fireworks. This plant grows about 3-4 feet tall. It’s a perfect backdrop for other flowers. Butterflies can’t resist it.

Here are some quick facts about Fireworks Goldenrod:

• Bloom time: Late summer to fall
• Soil type: Well-drained
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Height: 3-4 feet

Golden Fleece

The Golden Fleece Goldenrod is compact. It reaches about 18 inches in height. This makes it ideal for smaller gardens. The plant has bright, golden-yellow flowers. These bloom from late summer through fall.

Here are some quick facts about Golden Fleece Goldenrod:

• Bloom time: Late summer to fall
• Soil type: Well-drained
• Sunlight: Full sun
• Height: 18 inches

Both Fireworks and Golden Fleece Goldenrods are great for attracting butterflies. Plant them in your garden. Watch the butterflies come!

Coreopsis Selections

Coreopsis, also known as tickseed, is a delightful choice for butterfly gardens. These plants are easy to grow and provide a bright splash of color. They are loved by butterflies for their nectar-rich blooms.

Early Sunrise

Early Sunrise is a popular Coreopsis variety. It produces double, golden-yellow flowers. This plant starts blooming in early summer and continues until fall.

Early Sunrise is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun. Butterflies are drawn to its vibrant, long-lasting flowers.

Feature	Detail
Height	18-24 inches
Spread	18-24 inches
Bloom Time	Early summer to fall
Light Needs	Full sun

Moonbeam

Moonbeam is another excellent Coreopsis selection. This variety features delicate, pale-yellow flowers. Moonbeam blooms from early summer through fall, providing a continuous food source for butterflies.

Moonbeam is known for its fine, thread-like foliage. It adds a soft texture to the garden. This plant is also drought-tolerant and easy to care for.

• Height: 12-18 inches
• Spread: 12-18 inches
• Bloom Time: Early summer to fall
• Light Needs: Full sun to partial shade

Both Early Sunrise and Moonbeam are great additions to any butterfly garden. Their bright colors and extended bloom times make them irresistible to butterflies.

Shasta Daisy Types

The Shasta Daisy is a popular garden flower. It attracts butterflies with its bright, white petals and sunny yellow centers. There are several types of Shasta Daisies that you can plant to draw butterflies to your garden. Let’s explore a few notable ones.

Becky

The Becky Shasta Daisy is a top choice for gardeners. It has large, sturdy blooms that can grow up to 4 inches wide. Becky blooms from early summer to fall, providing a long-lasting food source for butterflies. This variety is also drought-tolerant and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. Planting Becky Shasta Daisies will create a stunning, butterfly-friendly garden.

Alaska

The Alaska Shasta Daisy is another excellent option. This type features pure white petals and a golden-yellow center. Alaska daisies are known for their cold hardiness, making them a great choice for cooler climates. They bloom from early summer to late fall, offering a consistent supply of nectar for butterflies. Alaska Shasta Daisies are compact and grow up to 2 feet tall. Their neat habit and prolific blooms make them a garden favorite.

Shasta Daisy Type	Bloom Size	Bloom Time	Height	Sun Requirements
Becky	Up to 4 inches	Early Summer to Fall	Up to 4 feet	Full Sun to Partial Shade
Alaska	Up to 3 inches	Early Summer to Fall	Up to 2 feet	Full Sun to Partial Shade

Salvia Varieties

Salvia varieties are a fantastic addition to any garden. They are low-maintenance, drought-resistant, and come in vibrant colors. Most importantly, they attract butterflies. Their nectar-rich flowers are a favorite for many butterfly species. Let’s explore two popular Salvia varieties: May Night and Caradonna.

May Night

May Night is a standout Salvia variety. It blooms in late spring and early summer. The deep purple flowers are stunning. They grow on tall spikes, creating a striking display. Butterflies love the nectar these flowers provide. Plant May Night in sunny areas. This variety is drought-resistant and easy to grow.

• Height: 18-24 inches
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
• Attracts: Butterflies, bees

Caradonna

Caradonna is another excellent choice. It has dark purple stems and violet-blue flowers. This variety blooms from late spring to fall. The striking color combination attracts butterflies. Plant Caradonna in well-drained soil. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

• Height: 18-24 inches
• Bloom Time: Late spring to fall
• Attracts: Butterflies, bees

Both May Night and Caradonna are beautiful additions to any garden. They are easy to care for and provide a constant source of nectar for butterflies. Consider adding these Salvia varieties to create a butterfly haven in your garden.

Cosmos Choices

Cosmos are beautiful, vibrant flowers that attract butterflies to your garden. With their delicate petals and bright colors, cosmos add charm and elegance to any outdoor space. Here are two popular cosmos choices that will make your garden a butterfly haven.

Sensation Mix

The Sensation Mix cosmos is a favorite among gardeners. These flowers come in various colors like pink, white, and crimson. Their tall stems and large blooms attract butterflies. They also create a stunning display in your garden. Sensation Mix cosmos are easy to grow and thrive in full sun. They need well-drained soil. Regular watering helps them stay healthy. Planting these cosmos will bring a burst of color and lots of butterflies.

Sonata

Sonata cosmos are another excellent choice for attracting butterflies. These flowers are more compact, making them perfect for smaller gardens. Sonata blooms in shades of white, pink, and rose. They are also ideal for containers. Butterflies love their nectar-rich flowers. Sonata cosmos bloom early and continue flowering throughout the season. They need full sun and well-drained soil. These flowers are low-maintenance and resistant to diseases. By planting Sonata cosmos, you will enjoy a beautiful garden full of butterflies.

Lavender Selections

Lavender Selections showcases 20 plants that attract butterflies to your garden. Discover vibrant flowers that invite these beautiful insects. Enhance your outdoor space with nature’s charm.

Lavender is a magnet for butterflies. It’s fragrant and beautiful. Different types of lavender can enhance your garden and attract more butterflies. Let’s explore two popular lavender selections: English Lavender and French Lavender.

English Lavender

English Lavender is a classic choice. It’s known for its sweet scent. This plant blooms in late spring. It has narrow, green leaves and long, purple spikes. Butterflies love its nectar-rich flowers. English Lavender is easy to grow. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Regular pruning helps it stay healthy. It also repels pests, making it a garden favorite.

French Lavender

French Lavender has a unique look. Its flowers have little “rabbit ears” on top. These blooms appear from spring to summer. The plant has a strong, herbal scent. Butterflies find it irresistible. French Lavender prefers warm climates. It needs well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. Prune it to keep the shape neat and encourage new growth. This lavender also adds a Mediterranean touch to your garden. “`

Yarrow Varieties

Yarrow varieties are a fantastic addition to any butterfly garden. These hardy perennials are known for their vibrant blooms and ability to attract butterflies. There are several types of yarrow, each offering unique colors and benefits. In this section, we will focus on two popular yarrow varieties: Moonshine and Paprika.

Moonshine

Moonshine yarrow is a standout choice for attracting butterflies. It boasts bright yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early autumn. Butterflies are drawn to its nectar-rich blooms, making it a must-have in your garden.

Here are some key features of Moonshine yarrow:

• Bright yellow flowers
• Blooms from late spring to early autumn
• Attracts a variety of butterflies
• Drought-tolerant and easy to care for
• Grows well in full sun

Moonshine yarrow is not only attractive to butterflies, but it also adds a splash of color to your garden. Its low-maintenance nature makes it perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Paprika

Paprika yarrow is another excellent choice for a butterfly-friendly garden. This variety features vibrant red flowers that gradually fade to a softer pink. The striking color combination creates a visually appealing display that butterflies can’t resist.

Key features of Paprika yarrow include:

• Vibrant red flowers that fade to pink
• Blooms from early summer to early autumn
• Attracts numerous butterfly species
• Resistant to drought and easy to grow
• Thrives in full sun

Paprika yarrow is a great way to add both color and butterfly activity to your garden. Its eye-catching blooms and hardy nature make it a valuable addition to any outdoor space.

Bee Balm Types

Bee Balm is a vibrant and aromatic plant that butterflies love. Known for its bright colors and fragrant flowers, it adds beauty and life to any garden. There are several types of Bee Balm that are particularly attractive to butterflies. Below, we will explore two popular varieties: Jacob Cline and Raspberry Wine.

Jacob Cline

Jacob Cline is famous for its striking red flowers. These blooms attract a variety of butterflies. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and is very hardy. Jacob Cline blooms in mid to late summer, providing a feast for butterflies during this time.

Characteristic	Detail
Flower Color	Red
Height	Up to 4 feet
Bloom Time	Mid to late summer

Raspberry Wine

Raspberry Wine features beautiful wine-colored flowers. Butterflies are drawn to its deep, rich hue. This type of Bee Balm grows to about 3-4 feet in height. It blooms from mid-summer to early fall, offering a long-lasting food source for butterflies.

Characteristic	Detail
Flower Color	Wine-colored
Height	3-4 feet
Bloom Time	Mid-summer to early fall

Sunflower Options

Sunflowers are a fantastic addition to any butterfly garden. Their bright and large blooms attract butterflies from afar. Different sunflower varieties can provide continuous blooms throughout the growing season. Let’s explore some sunflower options that can bring these beautiful pollinators to your garden.

Lemon Queen

The Lemon Queen sunflower is a butterfly magnet. It features bright yellow petals and a dark center. This variety grows tall, reaching up to 6 feet. Its large blooms provide ample nectar for butterflies. Planting Lemon Queen sunflowers will create a sunny and inviting spot for these delicate creatures.

Autumn Beauty

The Autumn Beauty sunflower offers a warm color palette. Its petals range from golden yellow to deep bronze. This variety blooms in late summer to early fall. The multiple blooms per stem provide extended feeding opportunities. Butterflies will flock to the vibrant colors and abundant nectar.

Marigold Choices

Marigolds are a vibrant addition to any garden. They not only add color but also attract butterflies. There are two main types of marigolds to consider. Let’s explore them.

French Marigold

French marigolds are small but impactful. They grow to about 6-12 inches tall. Their bright orange, yellow, and red blooms attract butterflies. These plants are easy to grow. They thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Their compact size makes them perfect for borders and containers. Regular deadheading keeps them blooming all season.

African Marigold

African marigolds are larger than their French cousins. They can grow up to 3 feet tall. Their large, pom-pom-like blooms come in shades of yellow and orange. These plants are butterfly magnets. They prefer full sun and can tolerate dry conditions. African marigolds are excellent for larger garden beds. They make a bold statement with their size and color.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Plants Attract Butterflies The Most?

Butterflies are attracted to plants like milkweed, coneflowers, and lantanas. These plants provide nectar and habitat.

How Do I Attract Butterflies To My Garden?

Plant a variety of nectar-rich flowers like zinnias, sunflowers, and asters. Provide a sunny, sheltered spot.

Do Native Plants Attract More Butterflies?

Yes, native plants are well-adapted to local conditions. They attract more butterflies than non-native species.

What Time Of Year Do Butterflies Visit Gardens?

Butterflies are most active during late spring to early fall. Planting flowers that bloom in these periods helps.

Conclusion

Creating a butterfly-friendly garden is easy and rewarding. Choose plants that butterflies love. Your garden will become a colorful haven. Butterflies are not only beautiful, they are also helpful. They pollinate flowers and support the ecosystem. By planting these 20 plants, you invite butterflies to your garden.

Enjoy watching them flutter and thrive. Your garden will be lively and enchanting. Start planting today and see the magic.