Are butterfly bushes recommended for butterfly gardens?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Butterfly bushes have important ecological trade-offs. They provide adult butterflies with plentiful nectar and are attractive to them. Still, they do not support reproduction, as there is no value for caterpillars, which could be considered as host plants. Certain varieties are also invasive and even banned in some states. Native alternatives offer entire habitat benefits that butterfly bushes do not.
Reproduction Failure
- Butterfly bushes don't serve as caterpillar host plants
- Leaves are inedible to most native butterfly larvae
- Creates ecological dead ends without reproduction support
Invasive Risks
- Aggressive spread in temperate regions
- Banned in Oregon, Washington and Pennsylvania
- Outcompetes native plants in disturbed soils
Native Alternatives
- Milkweed serves monarchs at all life stages
- Goldenrod feeds adults and hosts specialist caterpillars
- Regional natives support local ecosystems completely
Butterfly bushes can lead to significant ecological imbalances. For example, in my garden, I saw adult butterflies clustering on blooms. At the same time, a few caterpillars starved just a few feet away. Butterfly bushes provide no food value for larvae. They replace the native plants that provide food for butterflies to reproduce. Once I removed these plants, the activity of monarch butterflies doubled in that season.
Invasive features can damage habitats. For example, butterfly bushes quickly populate an area by seed dispersal. They will take over the riverbanks in disturbed areas. Native species often cannot compete with many others. Many states prohibit some varieties. Always read your local ordinance before planting. Being a responsible gardener means planting non-invasive species.
Native plants support complete life cycles. Milkweed supports monarchs from eggs to adults. Goldenrod host caterpillars are specialists and feed other butterflies. There are many regional natives, like firebush in Florida, that support local ecology. These plants evolved with local butterflies. They provide a balanced diet and habitat.
The process of replacing butterfly bushes is simple. Unscrew and remove the plant that was there beforehand. In its place, put in three types of native plants. First, milkweed for the monarchs. Next, a kind of goldenrod for the nectar supply in the fall. Last, a shelter shrub, such as buttonbush. After the modifications, water the new plants daily for approximately three weeks.
Consider selecting sustainable options, and plant native milkweed plants rather than butterfly bushes. Provide full support to your local ecosystem. Delight in observing butterflies flourish through all life stages. This is the true meaning of your garden being a sanctuary rather than a feeding station.
Read the full article: How to Create Butterfly Garden in 7 Easy Steps
