Plants for butterflies

There are nearly 60 species of butterfly in Britain, many to be seen in gardens. Enjoy their beauty and help support them by planting some of these butterfly favourites.

Practical tips

  • Plant a nectar-rich butterfly border in a sunny spot
  • Some butterflies such as red admiral enjoy over-ripe fruit in the autumn
  • Include a few caterpillar food plants in your mix

Spring and early summer nectar plants

Late summer and autumn nectar plants

Some caterpillar food plants

Advertise here

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.