12 Enchanting Trees That Attract and Nourish Butterflies in Your Garden

Turn your yard into a butterfly paradise with flowering trees and shrubs that attract Monarchs and Swallowtails.

Create a vibrant garden filled with stunning flowers that draw in these captivating butterflies.

Create a Butterfly Haven with These Stunning Trees and Shrubs

1. Willows

Providing a haven for butterflies, Willows offer abundant nectar and shelter.

Flexible branches and lush leaves create an inviting environment for butterfly larvae and adults.

Ideal for wet areas, Willows enhance the beauty and ecological health of the landscape.

• Butterflies Attracted: Mourning Cloaks, Viceroys, and Red-spotted Purples
• Botanical Name: Salix

2. Oak

Majestic and sturdy, Oak trees are a butterfly magnet, attracting numerous species with their abundant foliage and nectar.

Their branches and leaves provide essential habitats and food sources for butterfly larvae and adults alike.

These trees not only beautify landscapes but also support local butterfly populations.

• Butterflies Attracted: Hairstreaks, Fritillaries, and Red-spotted Purples
• Botanical Name: Quercus

3. Cherry Tree

Attracting butterflies with beautiful blossoms and sweet nectar, Cherry trees are a delightful addition to any garden.

Their vibrant flowers and lush foliage provide food and shelter for butterfly larvae and adults.

These ornamental trees enhance both beauty and ecological value.

• Butterflies Attracted: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Red-spotted Purples, and Spring Azures
• Botanical Name: Prunus

4. Hackberry

A top choice for attracting butterflies, Hackberry trees provide essential food sources and habitats.

With their hardy nature, these trees thrive in various conditions, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

Butterflies are drawn to their berries and foliage, ensuring a lively and colorful landscape.

• Butterflies Attracted: Question Marks, Mourning Cloaks, and Hackberry Emperors
• Botanical Name: Celtis occidentalis

5. Elms

Attracting butterflies with their lush foliage and nectar-rich flowers, Elms are a fantastic addition to any landscape.

These stately trees provide essential habitats and food sources for butterfly larvae and adults.

Enhancing both beauty and ecological value, Elms are a top choice for butterfly gardens.

• Butterflies Attracted: Mourning Cloaks, Commas, and Question Marks
• Botanical Name: Ulmus

6. Eastern Redbud

Adding vibrant color and attracting butterflies, Eastern Redbud trees are perfect for any garden.

Their heart-shaped leaves and pink flowers provide essential food and habitats for butterfly larvae and adults.

These trees are not only visually stunning but also beneficial for local ecosystems.

• Butterflies Attracted: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Red-spotted Purples, and Spring Azures
• Botanical Name: Cercis canadensis

7. Sweetbay Magnolia

Attracting butterflies with its fragrant, creamy-white flowers, the Sweetbay Magnolia adds elegance to any garden.

Its lush foliage and nectar-rich blooms provide food and shelter for butterfly larvae and adults.

This tree thrives in moist conditions, enhancing both beauty and biodiversity.

• Butterflies Attracted: Eastern Tiger Swallowtails, Spicebush Swallowtails, and Palamedes Swallowtails
• Botanical Name: Magnolia virginiana

8. Serviceberry

Drawing butterflies with its early spring blossoms and sweet berries, Serviceberry trees are a charming addition to any garden.

Their beautiful white flowers and lush foliage provide essential habitats for butterfly larvae and adults.

These trees enhance garden aesthetics and support local wildlife.

• Butterflies Attracted: Red-spotted Purples, Viceroys, and Tiger Swallowtails
• Botanical Name: Amelanchier

9. Sassafras Tree

Luring butterflies with aromatic leaves and vibrant yellow flowers, Sassafras trees provide essential food and habitats for butterfly larvae and adults.

These trees are an excellent addition to butterfly gardens, adding unique beauty and ecological benefits to any landscape.

• Butterflies Attracted: Spicebush Swallowtails, Palamedes Swallowtails, and Tiger Swallowtails
• Botanical Name: Sassafras albidum

10. Flowering Dogwood

Beloved for its beautiful blooms, Flowering Dogwood attracts butterflies with its vibrant flowers and lush foliage.

These trees provide essential habitats and nectar for butterfly larvae and adults.

Flowering Dogwoods add stunning beauty and ecological value to any landscape.

• Butterflies Attracted: Spring Azure, Red-Spotted Purple, and Tiger Swallowtail
• Botanical Name: Cornus florida

11. Paw Paw

Attracting butterflies with its unique fruits and lush foliage, Paw Paw trees are a fantastic garden addition.

These trees provide vital food and shelter for butterfly larvae and adults, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Paw paw trees also offer delicious, tropical-tasting fruits.

• Butterflies Attracted: Zebra Swallowtails
• Botanical Name: Asimina triloba

12. Kousa Dogwood

Butterflies flock to Kousa Dogwood for its stunning white flowers and rich foliage.

This tree provides vital nectar and habitats for butterfly larvae and adults. Kousa Dogwoods enhance garden beauty while supporting local butterfly populations.

• Butterflies Attracted: Spring Azure, Red-Spotted Purple, and Tiger Swallowtail
• Botanical Name: Cornus kousa

Important Considerations Before Planting

1. Location Matters: Choose a sunny spot, as butterflies love basking in the sun. Make sure the area has well-drained soil to avoid root rot.
2. USDA Growing Zone: Check your USDA growing zone to ensure the tree you want will thrive in your area. Planting trees suited to your climate ensures better growth and resilience.
3. Tree Size: Consider the mature size of the tree to ensure it fits well in your garden. Proper spacing prevents overcrowding and ensures healthy growth.
4. Water Needs: Newly planted trees need consistent watering to establish strong roots. Be mindful of each tree’s specific water requirements.
5. Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost to provide essential nutrients. Testing your soil can help you understand what amendments might be necessary.
6. Native Species: Opt for native trees when possible. They are better adapted to the local environment and provide more benefits to native butterfly species.
7. Seasonal Planting: Planting in early spring or fall gives trees the best chance to establish roots before extreme weather sets in.
8. Maintenance: Regular pruning helps maintain tree health and encourages better flowering, which in turn attracts more butterflies.

Want More?

I hope you found the perfect tree or shrub that will fit nicely in your yard and attract butterflies for years to come.

If you love birds then take a look at our articles on trees that attract hummingbirds and bird friendly trees.