Butterfly Garden

Our free Planting Guide for this garden includes a larger version of the illustration, a detailed layout diagram, a list of plants for the garden as shown, a list of alternatives for each plant, and complete instructions for installing the garden. (Free, one-time registration allows unlimited access to Planting Guides for all garden plans.)

The stained-glass patterns of butterflies will add an extra dimension to this floral island bed, which bursts with perennial and annual flowers that are irresistible to these pretty creatures. A variety of blossoms offer nectar to adult butterflies, while leafy food sources, such as parsley, nourish the larvae. The one shrub in the design is commonly called "butterfly bush" for good reason -- it lures butterflies of all sorts. Rocks are convenient perches for butterflies to sun themselves, and a birdbath provides water. Butterflies are sun-loving creatures, as are the plants in this garden. Locate it where it receives six or more hours of sun daily. And remember: No pesticides are allowed in your butterfly garden.