Gardener's List of Butterfly-Attracting Plants Promises a Total Show

Love butterflies and want to see more of them fluttering around your garden? It's time to add more of what they love—flowers! But not just any flowers, you need the kind that butterflies find irresistible. Lucky for us, the creators over at the TikTok channel NeedsMoreFarmNC have put together a list of pollinator-attracting plants that will bring color and life to your garden in all sorts of gorgeous ways.

What Flowers Do Butterflies Like?

First things first, what sorts of flowers do butterflies find attractive? Well, it's all about the colors, size, and scent. Bright, bold hues like red, yellow, and purple are like neon signs saying, "Hey, come over here!" They also prefer flowers with large, flat surfaces where they can easily land and sip nectar. Think of it as a butterfly landing pad, complete with refreshments!

Related: Perfect DIY Pollinator Planter Promises Visits From Hummingbirds and Butterflies

NeedsMoreFarmNC kicks off their list with Milkweed . If you've never heard of this plant, you're in for a treat because it's the go-to flower for Monarch butterflies. Milkweed blooms in a variety of colors, from pink and orange to white, and typically puts on its show from late spring through summer. Not only does it offer nectar, but it's also a host plant for Monarch caterpillars . Talk about a two-for-one deal! Monarch butterflies lay their eggs on milkweed, so you'll get to see the entire lifecycle from tiny egg to beautiful butterfly, right in your own garden.

Next up is Hyssop, also known as Agastache. This one is a superstar amongst butterflies and bees alike. Hyssop has tall spikes of flowers that come in shades of lavender, pink, and blue, blooming from mid-summer to fall. It's like a buffet for pollinators, offering plenty of nectar and a lovely scent to boot. Plus, it's a perennial, so you'll have these beauties coming back year after year without much fuss.

Mexican Flame Vine is another fantastic option, but it comes with a bit of a caveat. This vine is known for its rapid growth and stunning orange flowers, making it a magnet for butterflies. However, it can be invasive in some areas, so it's essential to check if it's suitable for your local zone before planting. If it gets the green light, you'll be rewarded with a cascade of vibrant blossoms that will turn your garden into a butterfly haven.

Last but certainly not least, we have Zinnias . These annuals may need replanting each year, but they make up for it by self-seeding, which means less work for you! Zinnias come in a rainbow of colors and are popular with all sorts of pollinators, including butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. They bloom all summer long, ensuring a constant supply of nectar for your winged visitors.

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