Butterflies are attracted to a wide range of flowers, with the best options often being those that provide plenty of nectar. Some popular choices for attracting butterflies include:
1. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
This plant, true to its name, is renowned for attracting butterflies. It has conical, nectar-rich flowers that come in a variety of colors. While not native, it certainly is naturalized.
20 Florida-Native “Black Drink Holly” Seeds (Ilex nigrumpotum) formerly “Yaupon”
20 or more seeds of the Florida-native, Black Drink Holly (Ilex nigrumpotum), formerly known as “Yaupon.” Origin: Polk Co. FL Zone 9b.
2. Coneflowers (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are not only beautiful, but they also produce a good amount of nectar which butterflies love. One of the top butterfly flowers available.
2 Sweet-Scented Pigeonwings (Clitoria Fragrans) Seeds for 2024 – Florida Native – FL ONLY
Clitoria fragrans is a rare species of flowering plant in the legume family known by the common name pigeon wings, or sweet-scented pigeon wings. It is endemic to Central Florida and is listed as federally endangered. If you think you can grow one, then you can help Johnny on his mission to restore endangered species… one day at a time!
3. Zinnias:
Zinnias‘ bright, daisy-like flowers are easy to grow from seed and popular with butterflies.
4. Milkweed (Asclepias)
This plant is a must-have for any butterfly garden, especially if you want to attract Monarch butterflies, as it’s the only plant their caterpillars eat.
125 Butterfly Milkweed Seeds (Asclepias Tuberosa) for North America 2024
More than 600mg of Butterfly Milkweed Seeds (Asclepias tuberosa). Origin Kentucky.
5. Sunflowers (Helianthus)
Another excellent choice, sunflowers produce plenty of nectar and are easy to grow from seed.
20 Florida-Native Sandhill Milkweed Seeds Ascslepias Humistrata Pinewood Milkweed
With Johnny Butterflyseed’s Sandhill Milkweed seeds, you’re not just planting flowers; you’re cultivating a living mosaic of nature’s marvels. Florida Native.
6. Lavender (Lavandula)
In addition to attracting butterflies, lavender also adds a wonderful aroma to your garden.
The most economical way to obtain these flowers often involves growing them from seeds, which can typically be purchased at a relatively low cost. Starting your plants indoors before the last frost can give them a head start and help ensure success. Some plants, like milkweed and coneflowers, can also be propagated from cuttings, which can be another cost-effective way to fill your garden with butterfly-friendly plants.
25 Florida-Native Maypop Purple Passionvine Seeds (Passiflora Incarnata)
Maypop Purple Passionvine Passiflora Incarnata seeds. Florida Native. 25+ seeds.
Consider incorporating companion planting in your garden. Some plants work together to enhance growth, deter pests, and create a more self-sustaining environment. This can help cut down on costs associated with pest control and fertilizers.
And finally, once your butterfly garden is established, let a few of your strongest plants go to seed each fall. You can collect these seeds and use them to grow new plants the following spring, saving you money and creating a self-sustaining cycle in your garden.
Remember that butterflies are attracted not just by flowers, but also by sources of water and sunlit areas for basking. Providing a small dish of water or mud and ensuring your garden gets plenty of sunshine will also help attract butterflies.
20 Florida-Native Sandhill Milkweed Seeds Ascslepias Humistrata Pinewood Milkweed
With Johnny Butterflyseed’s Sandhill Milkweed seeds, you’re not just planting flowers; you’re cultivating a living mosaic of nature’s marvels. Florida Native.