Best Plants to Attract Butterflies to Your Garden: Gardening for Pollinators

Q: Are early spring blue flowers annuals or perennials?
A: Most early spring blue flowers like Crocus and Iris reticulata are perennials. They come back every year, giving you reliable, beautiful blooms each spring. However, some, like Scilla and Chionodoxa, are typically planted as perennials, too, but depending on your climate, you may treat them as annuals if they don’t come back reliably in colder areas.
Q: Aside from blue flowers, are there any white flowers that bloom in early spring?
A: Absolutely! If you’re looking to mix things up, there are some gorgeous white flowers that bloom just as early as blue ones. Snowdrops are a classic—these delicate flowers pop up right when the snow is melting. Anemone is another great option; it has simple, pure white blooms that are perfect for adding a clean, crisp touch to your spring garden.
Q: What’s the best way to combine white and blue flowers in my garden?
A: For a stunning contrast, try planting blue ones like Crocus and Iris reticulata next to white ones like Anemone or Lily of the Valley. The combination of the cool blues with the fresh white blooms will create a striking visual impact. You can also create a natural look by planting them in clusters or drifts across your garden.
Q: Can desert rose survive cold temperatures?
A: No, plants prefer warm climates and do not tolerate frost well. If temperatures drop below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant should be brought indoors or placed in a warm, sheltered area. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause leaf drop, damage to the caudex, and even death.
Q: Is the sap of the desert rose toxic?
A: Yes, the sap of the desert rose is toxic if ingested. It contains a milky latex that can cause irritation or poisoning in pets and humans. The plant should be kept out of the reach of children and animals. When handling the plant, especially during pruning or repotting, it is advisable to wear gloves and wash hands afterward.
Q: How fast does a desert rose grow?
A: The desert rose could grow up to 12 inches per year under optimal conditions. However, it is a slow-growing plant, especially when grown from seed. Taller plants develop over several years, and their growth rate depends on factors such as sunlight, temperature, and proper care.
1. Do dragonflies like pink flowers?
Yes! Dragonflies are attracted to pink flowers that attract pollinators, such as swamp milkweed, wild bergamot, and joe-pye weed. These flowers not only enhance the garden’s beauty but also draw in insects that dragonflies prey on, such as mosquitoes and gnats.
2. Can dragonflies also help control mosquitoes?
Yes! Dragonflies are natural predators of mosquitoes. Both their nymphs (which live in water) and adults feed on mosquito larvae and flying mosquitoes. By adding plants that will attract dragonflies and providing a water feature, you create a habitat that encourages dragonflies to lay their eggs in or near water, helping control mosquito populations naturally.
3. Do dragonflies need specific types of perching plants?
Dragonflies love tall plants like black-eyed Susan, meadow sage, and joe-pye weed, which offer excellent perching spots. These plants allow dragonflies to rest and scan for prey, making them essential for a garden to attract dragonflies.
If you’ve ever seen a butterfly flutter by and wished it would stick around longer, you’re not alone. Creating a butterfly-friendly garden is easier than you think—it’s all about planting the right flowers. Butterfly-friendly plants tend to be colorful, rich in nectar, and have a natural charm that butterflies simply can't resist. Here’s a list of some of my favorites that will transform your garden into a butterfly paradise.
13 Best Plants That Attract Butterflies To Your Garden
1. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja)

Let’s start with a classic. The butterfly bush is the first nectar plant I ever put in my garden specifically to attract butterflies, and wow, does it deliver! These shrubs can grow up to 12 feet tall and are known for their long, arching branches filled with clusters of tiny, fragrant flowers. The blooms come in shades of purple (my favorite), pink, white, and yellow. I went with the deep purple variety, and the butterflies absolutely love it. The best part? It’s super low-maintenance once established and tolerant of drought, making it great for both experienced gardeners and beginners like I was when I first planted it. If you’re looking for purple plants that attract butterflies, this is definitely one to try.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Moderate; allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Soil: Well-draining, sandy soil is ideal.
- Temperature: Prefers warmer climates but is adaptable.
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Needs full sun (6+ hours daily).
2. Coneflower (Echinacea)

Ah, the coneflower. Every time I see one, I’m reminded of summer afternoons spent watching butterflies swoop in and out of my garden. These perennials have bright pink-purple petals and a spiky, cone-shaped center that butterflies adore. Coneflowers grow to about 2 to 4 feet tall, and the best part is their long blooming season—from mid-summer to early fall, which means butterflies have a reliable food source for months. I’ve found that even if you’re someone who tends to forget to water (guilty!), coneflowers will still reward you with beautiful blooms.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH.
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures around 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours).
3. Milkweed (Asclepias)

Now, I can’t talk about butterfly plants without mentioning milkweed. Monarch butterflies, in particular, are obsessed with it, and it’s also the only plant their caterpillars will eat. Milkweed plants grow between 2 and 5 feet tall and have clusters of pink, orange, or white flowers. They’re not just pretty, though—milkweed is essential if you’re serious about supporting monarch populations. If you’re new to gardening or want to attract monarchs specifically, milkweed is a must-have in your garden.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Moderate; allow soil to dry out between waterings.
- Soil: Prefers sandy or loamy, well-draining soil.
- Temperature: Enjoys a warm climate with temperatures between 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average to low humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
4. Lantana (Lantana camara)

One summer, I planted lantana on a whim, not really knowing much about it. It turned out to be one of the best choices I’ve made! Lantana is a sun-loving plant with bright clusters of tiny flowers that change color as they mature, often shifting from pink to orange or yellow. It grows anywhere from 1 to 6 feet tall, depending on the variety. And the butterflies? They can’t resist it. I’ve had lantana planted in pots around my patio, and every time I step outside, it’s like a butterfly party!
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Water moderately; don’t let it sit in water.
- Soil: Thrives in well-draining soil.
- Temperature: Loves hot weather, doing best in temperatures from 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C).
- Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
5. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)

Zinnias are one of the easiest annuals to grow, and butterflies absolutely adore them. These cheerful flowers come in just about every color you can think of—red, pink, yellow, orange, purple—and grow between 1 to 4 feet tall. I always plant a patch of zinnias in my garden because they bloom all summer long, providing a continuous feast for butterflies. They're pretty forgiving when it comes to care, as long as you water them regularly and give them plenty of sunlight, they’ll keep producing blooms.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
- Soil: Well-draining, rich soil is best.
- Temperature: Flourishes in temperatures of 65°F to 95°F (18°C to 35°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours)
6. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)

Despite its name, Joe-Pye weed is anything but a weed when it comes to attracting butterflies. These tall perennials can reach up to 7 feet, with clusters of pale purple flowers that butterflies can’t resist. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first about planting something with “weed” in the name, but now it’s one of my garden staples. It’s also one of those plants that’s perfect for someone who doesn’t want to fuss too much. Plant it, give it some water, and let it do its thing.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Requires regular watering; loves moisture.
- Soil: Prefers rich, moist soil.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
- Humidity: Prefers high humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
7. Verbena (Verbena bonariensis)

Verbena is another butterfly favorite, known for its tall, slender stems and clusters of tiny purple flowers. I love how verbena adds a bit of elegance to any garden—its airy look contrasts beautifully with bulkier plants. Verbena typically grows to about 3 to 6 feet tall, and butterflies flock to it all summer long. If you’re someone who likes plants that are both butterfly-friendly and easygoing, verbena is a great choice.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential.
- Temperature: Thrives in warmer conditions, ideally between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
8. Aster (Symphyotrichum spp.)

Asters are late-bloomers, which makes them perfect for extending the butterfly season into the fall. These perennial beauties grow between 1 to 6 feet tall and have daisy-like flowers in shades of purple, pink, blue, and white. I remember being pleasantly surprised the first time I saw butterflies flock to my asters in September, long after many of my other flowers had faded. They’re a great option if you want to keep butterflies visiting your garden as the season winds down.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil.
- Temperature: Grows best in temperatures of 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (4+ hours).
9. Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Phlox is another butterfly favorite that brings stunning color to any garden. These fragrant perennials grow between 2 and 4 feet tall and come in shades of pink, purple, white, and red. I’ve found that they’re fairly easy to care for, as long as you keep them watered, especially during hot spells. If you’re looking for a fragrant flower that attracts butterflies and also adds beauty to your garden, phlox is a fantastic choice.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Soil: Fertile, well-draining soil is ideal.
- Temperature: Enjoys temperatures around 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C).
- Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours).
10. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

Black-eyed Susans are a cheerful addition to any butterfly garden. With their bright yellow petals and dark centers, these flowers are hard to miss. Growing to about 2 to 3 feet tall, black-eyed Susans bloom from summer to fall, providing a steady source of nectar for butterflies. They’re perfect if you want a pop of color with minimal effort.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently; let the soil dry out between.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soil.
- Temperature: Thrives well in temperatures of 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
11. Lavender (Lavandula)

Lavender is a gorgeous, fragrant herb that’s not only a butterfly favorite but also attracts hummingbirds and bees. This plant grows to about 2 to 3 feet tall and produces lovely purple spikes of flowers. Butterflies love this plant—plus, it makes your garden smell amazing. If you’re looking for purple plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, lavender is a must.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Water moderately; drought-tolerant once established.
- Soil: Sandy or loamy, well-drained soil is ideal.
- Temperature: Prefers warm, dry conditions with temperatures between 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates low to moderate humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
12. Salvia (Salvia spp.)

Salvia, with its tall spikes of purple, blue, pink, or red flowers, is another butterfly and hummingbird magnet. Growing between 1 to 5 feet tall, salvia is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it perfect for busy gardeners or those looking to create a vibrant, butterfly-friendly space without too much effort. Salvia adds both color and height to any garden beds, plus the added bonus of seeing hummingbirds and butterflies buzzing around.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Soil: Prefers well-drained soil.
- Temperature: Grows best in temperatures around 65°F to 90°F (18°C to 32°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
13. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Who doesn’t love the sunny, cheerful face of a sunflower? These giants can grow several feet tall, and their broad, bright yellow blooms are like magnets for butterflies, particularly Monarchs and Swallowtails. Sunflowers are also host plants where butterflies lay their eggs, supporting caterpillar growth. I remember growing sunflowers as a kid—they were one of the first plants I ever took care of, and their fast growth and minimal care made them easy for me to handle. Sunflowers are great for novice gardeners or anyone who wants to add a bold statement to their butterfly garden. Plus, their seeds can feed birds and other wildlife, adding even more life to your garden.
Quick Care Tips:
- Watering: Water regularly; keep soil moist.
- Soil: Well-drained soil rich in organic matter is best.
- Temperature: Thrives in sunny spots with temperatures of 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C).
- Humidity: Tolerates average humidity.
- Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours).
FAQ
Q: Do butterflies prefer certain colors?
A: Yes, butterflies are particularly attracted to bright colors like purple, pink, red, yellow, and orange. Plants with these colors are more likely to catch a butterfly's attention, which is why many of the plants that attract butterflies have vibrant blooms.
Q: Can I use insecticides in my butterfly garden?
A: It’s best to avoid using insecticides in a butterfly garden, as many common insecticides are harmful to butterflies at all life stages—from eggs to caterpillars to adults. Even organic or natural insecticides can harm the butterflies you're trying to attract.
Q: How can I encourage butterflies to lay eggs in my garden?
A: To encourage butterflies to lay eggs in your garden, plant a variety of host plants that cater to local butterfly species. By providing the right plants, like milkweed for monarchs, or aster for painted ladies, or Joe-Pye weed for swallowtails, you create an inviting environment for butterflies to lay eggs and help support caterpillar development.