A New Measure for Understanding Plant-Pollinator Relationships By Johnny Butterflyseed Pollinators are the unsung heroes of our ecosystems, playing a critical role in the reproduction of countless plant species. From bees and butterflies to beetles and birds, these creatures ensure that plants can produce the seeds and fruits necessary for […]
Nectar Plants
Butterfly Needle (Bidens Alba): A Perfect Plant for Your Butterfly Garden
Have you ever noticed those pretty white flowers that seem to be everywhere in Florida? They’re called Butterfly Needle, or Bidens alba, but they’re also known by other names like Beggarticks, Romerillo, and sometimes mistakenly called Spanish Needle, which is Bidens bipinnata. Despite sometimes being called a w**d, this plant […]
Bidens Alba: The “Butterfly Needle” of Florida
Bidens Alba, commonly known by several names including Beggarticks, Romerillo, Spanish Needle, and endearingly referred to as “Butterfly Needle,” is a fascinating and widely recognized plant within Florida’s diverse flora. This hardy and prolific species, part of the Asteraceae family, plays a significant role in the local ecosystem, particularly for […]
Prairie Blazing Star: A Gem for Butterfly Gardens
Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris Pycnostachya and/or L. spicata) is a stunning native plant known for its tall, spike-like inflorescences adorned with vibrant purple flowers. This beautiful plant is a magnet for butterflies, making it a perfect addition to butterfly gardens across the United States. A Unique Native The Prairie Blazing […]
Comparing Liatris Pycnostachya of Central US and Liatris Spicata of Florida
Liatris Pycnostachya, commonly known as Prairie Blazing Star, and Liatris Spicata, also known as Prairie Blazing Star, as well as Dense Blazing Star and Spiked Gayfeather, are two species within the Liatris genus that exhibit remarkable similarities in their morphology. Despite their native ranges being separated by considerable geographic distances, […]
Planting Guide for Monarch Sunflower Seeds (Helianthus annuus)
This guide will provide you with all the necessary steps to successfully plant and nurture Monarch Sunflowers across USDA Zones 1 through 11.
How Tall Elephantsfoot (Elephantopus elatus) Sustains U.S. Southeastern Butterflies
Tall Elephantsfoot is a valuable native plant in the southeastern United States, offering significant benefits to butterflies through nectar provision, habitat enhancement, and participation in broader ecological relationships.
The Genus Rudbeckia: A Tale of Beauty, History, and Ecological Importance
The genus Rudbeckia, commonly known as coneflowers or black-eyed Susans, holds a special place in both the botanical world and American heritage.