Introduction
Welcome to our guide on the best perennial garden butterfly plants for the year 2023. If you’re an avid gardener or simply enjoy the beauty of butterflies, this article is for you. We will provide you with a list of stunning plants that will attract butterflies to your garden all year round. Read on to discover the top picks for this year!
1. Milkweed
Milkweed is a must-have plant for any butterfly garden. It is the primary food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars. Not only will planting milkweed attract monarchs, but it will also support their life cycle. There are many varieties of milkweed to choose from, such as common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) and butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa).
2. Coneflowers
Coneflowers, also known as Echinacea, are beautiful perennial plants that attract butterflies with their vibrant colors. The nectar-rich flowers of coneflowers are a favorite among many butterfly species, including swallowtails and painted ladies. They are easy to grow and come in a variety of colors, such as pink, purple, and white.
3. Black-eyed Susans
Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) are another popular choice for butterfly gardens. These cheerful yellow flowers with dark centers attract a wide range of butterfly species, including sulphurs and fritillaries. They bloom from mid-summer to fall, adding a burst of color to your garden.
4. Liatris
Liatris, also known as blazing star or gayfeather, is a tall, spiky plant that butterflies adore. Its vibrant purple flowers are a magnet for various butterfly species, including skippers and hairstreaks. Liatris blooms from mid-summer to early fall and adds height to your garden borders.
5. Joe-Pye Weed
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) is a native perennial that is not only attractive to butterflies but also to bees and other pollinators. Its large, mauve-pink flower clusters provide nectar for a wide range of butterfly species, including swallowtails and admirals. Joe-Pye Weed blooms in late summer and thrives in moist soil.
6. Asters
Asters are a fantastic addition to any butterfly garden. These daisy-like flowers come in various colors, including purple, pink, and white. Asters provide late-season nectar for butterflies, including painted ladies and monarchs. They are low-maintenance plants that will bring color to your garden well into the fall.
7. Verbena
Verbena is a versatile plant that works well in both garden beds and containers. Its clusters of small flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white attract a wide range of butterflies, including skippers and swallowtails. Verbena blooms from spring to fall, providing a continuous source of nectar for butterflies.
8. Butterfly Bush
No butterfly garden would be complete without the butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii). This shrub produces long, cone-shaped clusters of flowers that are highly attractive to butterflies. It comes in various colors, such as purple, pink, and white. The butterfly bush blooms from summer to fall and is a favorite among many butterfly species, including swallowtails and admirals.
9. Sedum
Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a drought-tolerant perennial that butterflies love. Its flat clusters of small flowers come in various colors, such as pink, red, and white. Sedums bloom from late summer to fall, providing a late-season source of nectar for butterflies. They are also an excellent choice for rock gardens and groundcovers.
Conclusion
Creating a butterfly garden with perennial plants is a rewarding experience. By incorporating these best perennial garden butterfly plants into your landscape, you’ll not only attract butterflies but also help support their populations. Remember to provide a variety of plants that bloom at different times throughout the year to ensure a constant source of nectar. Happy gardening!
