Plants for Butterflies

From the iconic Monarch to the vibrant Painted Lady, butterflies add color, life, and movement to our gardens. But beyond beauty, they play a critical role as pollinators and indicators of a healthy ecosystem.

The best way to support butterflies? Plant the right things. Many butterflies rely on specific host plants to lay their eggs and feed their caterpillars—while nectar plants provide energy for adults.

At Westwood, we grow a wide selection of butterfly-friendly plants suited to Northwest Arkansas. Whether you're looking for native milkweed or pollinator-packed perennials, we're here to help you build a beautiful garden that gives back.

‍

Butterfly Plant Categories

Host Plants

These are the plants butterflies lay their eggs on—and the only food their caterpillars can eat.

Examples (see the full list below):

• Milkweed (Monarchs)
  
• Fennel, Dill, Parsley (Black Swallowtail)
  
• Passionflower Vine (Gulf Fritillary)
  
• Thistle, Hollyhock, Sunflower (Painted Lady)
  
  

Nectar Plants

Blooming flowers rich in nectar give adult butterflies energy to fly, mate, and migrate.

Top Picks (see the full list below):

• Zinnias
  
• Coneflower
  
• Lantana
  
• Cosmos
  
• Bee Balm

‍

How to Design a Butterfly Garden

Creating a pollinator-friendly space is easier than you think. Follow these simple tips:

• Mix host and nectar plants for full lifecycle support.
• Plant in clumps so butterflies can spot blooms easily.
• Choose sunny spots: butterflies are solar-powered.
• Avoid pesticides, even organic ones.
• Leave a little wild: fallen leaves, brush piles, and muddy spots all help.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍