Butterfly numbers have been shrinking due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. One of the easiest ways to help is by growing the right plants in your yard or garden. Flowers that provide nectar and host plants for caterpillars are both important. Many butterfly-friendly plants are beautiful, low-maintenance, and helpful for other pollinators too. With a little planning, you can turn your outdoor space into a safe haven for these amazing creatures. Here are some of the best plants to grow if you want to support and attract butterflies.
1. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)
Milkweed is one of the most important plants for butterflies, especially monarchs. It is both a nectar source and the only host plant for monarch caterpillars. These native perennials produce clusters of small, sweet-smelling flowers that attract a wide range of pollinators. Milkweed thrives in sunny spots and comes in many varieties suitable for different regions. Once planted, it returns each year with little care. Just be sure to choose a native species that grows well in your local climate.
2. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Purple coneflowers are hardy perennials known for their large, daisy-like blooms with raised centers. These vibrant flowers are a favorite for butterflies looking for nectar. They bloom through summer and into fall, providing a steady food source. Coneflowers do best in full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant once established and work well in both wildflower gardens and formal beds. The seed heads can also support birds in fall and winter.
3. Lantana (Lantana camera)
Lantana is a sun-loving plant with small, clustered flowers in bold colors like red, yellow, and pink. Butterflies are drawn to its high nectar content and long blooming season. It grows well in containers or garden beds and is often used in warmer climates. Though beautiful, Lantana can be invasive in some areas, so always check local guidelines before planting. Deadheading spent flowers can help keep them blooming all season long.
4. Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are colorful annuals that bloom in bright shades of orange, pink, and red. Their wide, open petals give butterflies a perfect landing pad. These easy-to-grow flowers thrive in sunny garden beds and attract butterflies from midsummer through fall. Since they are annuals, they need to be replanted each year, but they grow quickly from seed. Zinnias also help support other pollinators like bees and hoverflies.
5. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
Butterfly bush produces long spikes of fragrant flowers that attract many types of butterflies. It blooms from summer into fall and grows best in sunny, well-drained locations. However, this plant is considered invasive in several parts of the United States. Gardeners should research native alternatives such as Buttonbush or New Jersey Tea if they live in regions where it poses a risk. Pruning helps manage its size and encourages more blooms.
6. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Black-eyed Susans are cheerful, golden-yellow flowers with dark centers that bloom from summer into fall. They provide nectar for adult butterflies and attract other pollinators, too. These tough native perennials grow well in most soil types and full sun. Once established, they need little care and can handle drought conditions. Their long-lasting blooms also make them great for borders and cut flower gardens.
7. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
Joe-Pye weed is a tall, native perennial with large clusters of pink to purple flowers. It blooms in late summer and is especially attractive to swallowtail butterflies. This plant thrives in moist soil and full to partial sun. Its height makes it ideal for the back of a garden bed or near a fence. Joe-Pye weed supports biodiversity and grows naturally in meadows and woodland edges.
8. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis is a group of bright, daisy-like flowers that bloom over a long period. These low-maintenance plants attract butterflies with their sunny yellow, pink, or red blooms. Coreopsis is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun with well-drained soil. It works well in both formal borders and wildflower gardens. Regular deadheading encourages more blooms throughout the growing season.
9. Verbena (Verbena bonariensis)
Verbena bonariensis has tall, wiry stems topped with clusters of tiny purple flowers. Butterflies are drawn to its high nectar production and easy access. This plant thrives in full sun and can grow well in dry soil. Depending on the climate, it is a self-seeding annual or tender perennial. Because of its airy structure, it pairs nicely with other butterfly-attracting plants without crowding them.
10. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
Bee balm has unique, tube-shaped flowers in red, pink, or purple that are packed with nectar. It attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. This perennial prefers moist, rich soil and grows well in full sun to partial shade. Its strong, minty scent can help deter deer and rabbits. Regular deadheading helps extend the bloom time, and dividing the plant every few years keeps it healthy.
11. Aster (Symphyotrichum spp.)
Asters bloom late in the season when few other nectar sources remain. Their star-shaped flowers come in shades of purple, pink, or white. These native perennials are important for migrating butterflies like monarchs. Asters grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. They add color to the fall garden and support a wide range of pollinators.
12. Blazing Star (Liatris spicata)
Blazing star, also called gayfeather, features tall spikes of fluffy purple flowers. It blooms from top to bottom, attracting butterflies with its rich nectar. This native perennial thrives in sunny, well-drained spots. It adds vertical interest to garden beds and is easy to grow in both clay and sandy soils. Blazing star is also deer-resistant and long-lasting as a cut flower.
13. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Goldenrod blooms in late summer and fall, offering a critical nectar source for migrating butterflies. Its bright yellow flowers form dense clusters atop tall stems. Goldenrod grows well in sunny areas and adapts to many soil types. Despite myths, it does not cause allergies, and ragweed is the real culprit. This plant supports many pollinators and adds warm color to fall gardens.
14. Pentas (Pentas lanceolata)
Pentas are tropical-looking plants with clusters of star-shaped flowers in red, pink, or white. Butterflies love their steady nectar supply and long bloom time. These plants thrive in warm climates and full sun. In cooler areas, they are often grown as annuals or in containers. Pentas also attract hummingbirds and can be used in borders or butterfly gardens.
15. Blanket Flower (Gaillardia pulchella)
Blanket flowers have bold, daisy-like blooms in red, orange, and yellow. It blooms from early summer into fall and attracts butterflies with its rich nectar. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and sandy or poor soil. Blanket flowers are often short-lived but reseeded easily. Its vibrant colors add energy to any butterfly-friendly garden.
16. Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Salvia includes many varieties with spiky blooms that draw butterflies and other pollinators. Most types prefer full sun and well-drained soil. The flowers come in shades of blue, red, purple, or pink. Salvias bloom for long stretches and are easy to care for. Deadheading and occasional pruning keep them tidy and blooming strong through the season.
17. Phlox (Phlox paniculata)
Phlox produces large clusters of fragrant flowers in pink, white, or purple. Butterflies are attracted to its sweet scent and deep nectar wells. This perennial does well in sunny garden beds with rich, moist soil. It also tolerates partial shade. Phlox can be prone to mildew, so spacing plants well for airflow helps keep them healthy.
18. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow is a hardy perennial with flat flower heads in colors like yellow, pink, or white. Its strong scent and easy nectar access make it popular with butterflies. Yarrow grows in poor soil and full sun, and once established, it is very drought-tolerant. It spreads easily, making it a good choice for wildflower areas or erosion control.
19. Ironweed (Vernonia noveboracensis)
Ironweed is a tall, native plant with clusters of deep purple flowers that bloom in late summer. It attracts many butterfly species and supports pollinators preparing for fall migration. Ironweed thrives in moist, sunny areas like meadows and rain gardens. Its bold color and height make it a strong background plant in native borders.
20. Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower)
Tithonia is an annual with large, orange-red flowers that butterflies love. It blooms nonstop in hot weather and grows quickly from seed. Tithonia needs full sun and benefits from regular watering in dry conditions. Its tall stems and vibrant color make it a striking focal point. Butterflies are especially drawn to its open, wide petals.
21. Passionflower (Passiflora spp.)
Passionflower is a vine with exotic-looking flowers and deeply lobed leaves. It is the main host plant for several butterfly species, including the Gulf Fritillary. This plant grows well on trellises in sunny or partly shaded areas. Passionflower prefers moist, well-drained soil and may die back in cold winters. The flowers also attract bees and add a tropical feel to gardens.
22. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
Parsley is more than a kitchen herb; it is also a host plant for swallowtail butterflies. The caterpillars feed on its leaves before turning into adult butterflies. Parsley grows well in full sun to partial shade and moist soil. It is usually grown as an annual but may come back in milder climates. Adding it to flower beds or herb gardens helps support the butterfly life cycle.
23. Dill (Anethum graveolens)
Dill is a feathery herb that supports butterfly larvae, especially swallowtails. It grows quickly from seed and prefers sunny spots with well-drained soil. This annual plant can be tucked into vegetable gardens or borders. Allowing some plants to flower boosts their value to pollinators. Dill also adds visual texture and fragrance to the garden.
24. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel is a tall, fragrant herb with feathery foliage and yellow umbrella-shaped flowers. It serves as a host plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Fennel grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can self-seed easily, so gardeners may want to monitor its spread. This plant offers both food for butterflies and culinary use for people.
Bring Butterflies Back to the Garden
Growing plants that butterflies love helps bring beauty and balance to your yard. Each flower or herb on this list supports a key part of the butterfly life cycle, from feeding caterpillars to nourishing adults. Many of these plants are also great for other pollinators and are easy to care for once they are established. Whether you add one plant or start a full butterfly garden, your efforts can make a real difference. With a few smart choices, you can help butterflies thrive while enjoying a colorful, lively garden.