What Flowers Attract Butterflies

Butterflies are naturally drawn to certain flowers, especially those that offer a good source of nectar. If you want to create a butterfly-friendly garden, consider planting the following blooms:

Milkweed (Asclepias spp.): Essential for Monarch butterflies, as it serves as both a nectar source and a host plant for their larvae.
Coneflower (Echinacea spp.): These robust flowers are highly attractive to many butterfly species.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia spp.): Known for its fragrant blooms that come in many colors and are rich in nectar.
Lantana (Lantana camara): Offers vibrant clusters of flowers that butterflies find irresistible.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): Another favorite, these yellow flowers provide a plentiful supply of nectar.
Zinnias (Zinnia spp.): Brightly colored and long-blooming, they’re very attractive to butterflies.
Asters (Aster spp.): Blooming late in the season, they offer essential nectar when other sources may be scarce.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.): Their bright blossoms attract butterflies, and they are easy to grow.
Phlox (Phlox spp.): Particularly the tall garden phlox, which is a butterfly magnet.
Verbena (Verbena spp.): Known for their clusters of tiny blooms that are appealing to butterflies.
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum): Its tall, pinkish flowers provide ample nectar.
Blazing Star (Liatris spicata): Loved for its spike-like blooms that are rich in nectar.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.): Both annual and perennial varieties attract butterflies.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.): Besides butterflies, it also attracts bees and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.

Adding a mix of these plants to your garden can create a vibrant, butterfly-friendly habitat. Additionally, ensure there is a continuous bloom throughout the growing season by choosing plants that flower at different times, providing a constant nectar source. Remember that butterflies are also attracted to warmth and need sunny spots in your garden to thrive.