About This Collection
Monarch butterfly populations have dropped by over 80% since the 1990s. Swallowtails, painted ladies, and dozens of other butterfly species face similar pressures from habitat loss and declining host plant availability. Planting butterfly-friendly species is one of the most direct ways homeowners can help.
Butterflies need two types of plants: nectar plants (food for adults) and host plants (where females lay eggs and caterpillars feed). Milkweed is the only host plant for monarchs — without it, monarchs cannot reproduce. Many butterfly species are similarly dependent on specific native host plants.
PlantWise identifies plants that attract butterflies and matches them to your USDA zone. Filter by sun exposure, height, and other needs to find the perfect butterfly plants for every spot in your yard.
Find Butterfly Plants for My Zone → or browse the interactive directory.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between nectar plants and host plants?
Nectar plants feed adult butterflies. Host plants are where females lay eggs and caterpillars feed — they're essential for reproduction. A true butterfly yard needs both. Milkweed is the most famous host plant (monarchs only).
Do I need milkweed for monarchs?
Yes — milkweed is the only plant monarch caterpillars can eat. Without milkweed, monarchs cannot reproduce. Common Milkweed, Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa), and Swamp Milkweed are all excellent choices depending on your conditions.
What colors attract the most butterflies?
Butterflies are strongly attracted to red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple flowers. They prefer flat-topped or clustered flowers (like coneflowers, zinnias, and lantana) that provide a landing platform.
How do I keep butterflies in my yard longer?
Provide continuous bloom from spring through fall, include host plants for caterpillars, add a shallow water source (wet sand or mud puddle), and avoid pesticides. Butterflies also need sun-warmed flat rocks for basking.