Host Plants for Butterflies and Moths – The Native Plant Herald | 台北市立動物園資訊網

Those who garden with native plants are aware that natives attract a remarkable number of pollinators. Butterlies get most of the attention with their bright colors and sun-loving ways, but a variety of beautiful moths can be supported as well. While not all moth are pollinators, they do have unique realtionships with native plants, and provide an important food source for birds as well.

If you want to see more of both butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) in your yard, the addition of specific host plants is an empowering way to take an active role in supporting species diversity.

The wide-ranging Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) will lay eggs on many different plants, including Pussytoes (Antennaria), Ironweed (Vernonia) and Purple Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe).