Working at a butterfly garden, I frequently get asked about my top picks for nectar plants that draw butterflies. Naturally, these selections can differ based on your location. Whenever feasible, I recommend opting for local species.
native plants
However, there are several low-maintenance flowers that can suit nearly every gardener, and I particularly love these seven varieties.
Zinnia
Zinnia
spp., Annual
Among the simplest blooms to cultivate from seeds,
zinnias
They come in a variety of colors, dimensions, and blossom forms. The Profusion collection provides both single-petaled and double-flowered variants which are highly favored by butterflies. Additionally, Zinnia ‘Envy’ stands out with its distinctive light-green hue, guaranteed to garner admiration from all who see it. Often, zinnias will self-sow for the next season; however, you may also collect their seed pods once they form and store them to plant again in spring.
Anise Hyssop
Agastache foeniculum
, Areas 3 through 9
If you enjoy black licorice, you’ll appreciate the aroma of anise hyssop, often referred to as licorice mint. Indigenous to large parts of the northern U.S. and Canada, this plant features lovely lavender floral spires that attract butterflies. Additionally, it boasts the benefit of resisting both deer and drought conditions. Growing it from seeds is straightforward, and its leaves can be crumbled into teas or tossed into salads for extra flavor.
Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia fulgida
,
Rudbeckia hirta
, Zones 3 through 10
This
beloved native wildflower
It grows effortlessly in sunny areas and self-sows easily. Its distinctive bright yellow flowers featuring dark-brown centers are quite familiar, even though numerous variations have been developed and can be found for sale nowadays, such as ones with orange petals and two-toned blossoms. Ensure consistent watering and enough space to thrive.
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa
, Areas 4 through 10
Butterfly weed
belongs to the milkweed family, indicating that it serves as a host plant for monarchs and queens. Additionally, it features vibrant clusters of orange blooms that draw various butterfly species. Indeed, most
milkweed species
Feature blossoms that attract butterflies. Consider locating milkweeds indigenous to your region, and prune the seed pods if you struggle with controlling its growth in your garden.
Salvia
Salvia
spp., all zones, annual/perennial
The
salvia family
might provide a wider variety of options for flowers that draw butterflies compared to any others. Red salvia (
Salvia coccinea
) is popular in the southeastern region, whereas mealy-cup sage (صندVMLINUX
صند
Salvia farinacea
It is adored by butterfly enthusiasts across the country. Consider planting Salvia ‘Mystic Spires’ for its tall flower spikes that draw numerous butterflies.
Coneflower
Echinacea
spp., Zones 3 through 9
Several coneflower species are indigenous to various regions across the nation, and
butterflies love these blooms
The cone-shaped tops enable you to clearly view the butterflies that perch on them for nourishment. Purple coneflower (
E. purpurea
It is simple to cultivate from seeds and flourishes across much of the nation (though it might have difficulty thriving in the severely hot and damp conditions prevalent in the Deep South).
Newer cultivars
provide a broad spectrum of distinct colors and intriguing head shapes, yet opt for native varieties to ensure the highest nectar content.
Sunflower
Helianthus
spp., Annual
Wildlife gardeners often grow
sunflowers for birds
However, these large blooms also draw butterflies. The small florets within the centers of the flowerheads lure them in and provide an attractive background for photos. If space is limited and you can’t accommodate taller sunflowers, consider smaller cultivars such as ‘Sunspot’ or ‘Elf’.
Backyard Tip
Leave the seed heads intact to
draw goldfinches
And other birds during autumn.
What About Butterfly Bush?
Buddlleia davidii
, commonly called
butterfly bush
, is a widely favored minor
bush featuring blooms that draw butterflies
However, in certain regions of the country—particularly the Pacific Northwest—the shrub behaves invasively. It proliferates widely, suffocating indigenous flora.
If you want to include buddleia in your garden, start by consulting your nearby extension office to ensure this is a prudent choice. Additionally, opt for sterile varieties to minimize the risk of it proliferating uncontrollably.
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