How to Create a Butterfly Habitat

I love watching them, those ethereal winged creations that flutter among the flowers. There is something magical about them, their wings like beautiful jewels lifting to the wind. Imagine my excitement to have so many that they regularly would land on my hand, pausing, wings moving gently. Did you know that you can select plants that will bring the butterflies in by the hundreds? Imagine your own little butterfly oasis, bright with colorful blooms and alight with dancing butterflies! Let's take a look at plants that are a beacon for calling in butterflies.

Aconitum species (Monkshood), Delphinium, Foxglove, Gentiana, Monarda ,Penstemon (Beard Tongue), Obedient Plant, Lungwart, Pasque-Flower, Heliotrope, Verbena, Purple Coneflower, Mints, Lilac, Aster, Daylilies, Lavender, Black Eyed Susan, Liatris, Gaillardia, Petunias, Sedum, Marigolds, Buttonbush, Four O'Clocks, Nicotiana, Sweet Pepperbush, Alyssum, Aster, Bee Balm, Butterfly Bush, Calendula, Cosmos, Delphinium, Dianthus, Globe Thistle, Holly Hocks, Marigold, and my favorite Zinnia all attract various types of butterflies. You may also want to look at plants that support the butterfly and moth populations as food sources and habitat. Dill, Parsley, Anise, Milkweed, Cabbage, Cole, Oregano, Sage, Fennel, and Carrots make great plantings for the butterfly habitat.