Butterfly gardening is gaining a new popularity. John Jackman, entomologist with the Texas Agricultural Extension Service, understands the overwhelming attraction to the butterfly. It's an insect that is largely visual and attractive, so I think people are paying attention to it. Butterflies are a real popular item right now in Texas. The Lone Star State is home to more than 400 species of butterflies, and many garden enthusiasts are learning to plant the right flowers to get these beautiful creatures to visit their backyards.
Some flowers are a lot more attractive than others.
Lantana is a good host plant - butterfly bush and butterfly weed, too. There is a whole collection that is really good. They have four wings that are almost always covered by colored scales. The species, its life stage, the time of the year and each region of Texas determine host plants. An emerging caterpillar eats plant parts and attaches its chrysalis or silken cocoons to twigs or leaves, with the pupa inside.