Allen D. Owings, Smith, Megan M
Butterflies provide unequaled splendor and motion. Our fascination with these magical creatures is as evident today as it has been throughout history. Speaking to our gentler and possibly our romantic selves, butterflies have a calming effect. Observing these marvelous creatures fluttering seemingly effortlessly sometimes sets our minds adrift.
Life Cycle of Butterflies
A butterfly garden may be a few containers of one or two butterfly attracting plants or a very sizable garden with many different species to attract butterflies. To create a "butterfly friendly" environment, there are a few simple requirements: food, water, shelter, and a place to reproduce.
Many plants can attract butterflies to a garden area. They can include annual and perennial flowers, deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs, vines, and other material. Butterflies use many different species as hosts or nectar plants. Some butterflies are attracted to a wide range of plants. Others may be attracted to just one or two individual plant species. Listed below are common names of plants serving as hosts or nectar sources.
The LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture