Creating a Butterfly Garden

Butterfly C reating a Garden

South Texas is home to several species of butterflies. These tiny, colorful creatures possess the power to capture the attention of young and old alike. Creating a butterfly garden is more than just planting colorful flowers to attract them. Like any other creature, butterflies have specific needs when it comes to their habitat.

Here are a few plants that are sure to create a colorful, nectarrendering, butterfly-friendly habitat right in your own backyard.

Blue sage is a native Texas perennial, drought-resistant and blooms in shades of purple and blue nearly year-round.

Texas lantana thrives in hot Texas temperatures. It produces bright colorful blossoms and attracts swallowtails, sulphurs and brushfoot butterflies.

Asclepias is also known as milkweed and comes in several varieties. The most common variety in Texas is also known as Antelope Horn. Tropical Milkweed is not native to Texas but is widely available in garden centers and blooms in bright bold colors.

Zinnias grow well in the Texas heat and are easy to grow from a seed. They are annuals, so be prepared to plant them each spring.

Buddleia (butterfly bush) usually bloom mid-July through frost, in vibrant shades of purple, red and white. A butterfly garden will not only attract colorful creatures to your space, but will also create a colorful atmosphere in which you can relax and enjoy.

Don’t forget to feed the next generation of butterflies— the caterpillars! Here are some plants that will attract and nurture certain caterpillar species in Coastal South Texas:

• Asclepias (milkweed) – Monarchs • Passion Vines – Fritillaries • Parsley – Black Swallowtail • Citrus – Giant Swallowtail • Pipevine – Pipevine Swallowtail

Independent & Retirement

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Ledgestone Senior Living

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