The following plants have been observed serving as larval host plants for butterflies in Colorado gardens. This is not intended to be a recommended planting list. Rather, it documents plant species that have been observed supporting butterfly caterpillars, highlighting their role in the butterfly life cycle. Butterflies lay eggs on specific host plants, and the emerging caterpillars feed on those plants as they grow. Because many butterfly species rely on a relatively small number of host plants, incorporating appropriate larval host plants into the landscape is one of the most effective ways to support butterfly populations.
Also, note:
- Anise and Gas Plant are drought tolerant once established.
- Rue emits an oil that can burn sensitive skin. Wear gloves when handling.
Additionally: Some plants on this list are not native to Colorado. A few are designated as noxious weeds in the state. Their inclusion reflects documented observations of butterfly use, not a recommendation to plant them. Before adding any species to your landscape, research its suitability for your area and verify that it is not prohibited or invasive in Colorado.
| Butterfly – Larval Stage | Host Plant Common Name | Host Plant Scientific Name | Drought Tolerant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Painted Lady | Yarrow | Achillea millefolium | Yes |
| Wormwood | Artemesia absinthium | Yes | |
| Curry plant | Helichrysum angustigolium | Yes | |
| Mint | Mentha spp. | ||
| Sage | Salvia spp. | Yes | |
| Comfrey | Symphytum officinale | Yes | |
| Tansy | Tanacetum vulgare | Yes | |
| Black Swallowtail | Dill | Anethum graveolens | Yes |
| Caraway | Carum carvi | Yes | |
| Fennel | Foeniculum vulgare | Yes | |
| Lovage | Levisticum officinale | Yes | |
| Parsley | Petroselinum crispum | Yes | |
| Anise | Pimpinella anisum | Yes | |
| Rue | Ruta graveolens | Yes | |
| Anise Swallowtail | Dill | Anethum graveolens | Yes |
| Caraway | Carum carvi | Yes | |
| Fennel | Foeniculum vulgare | Yes | |
| Lovage | Levisticum officinale | Yes | |
| Parsley | Petroselinum spp. | Yes | |
| Anise | Pimpinella anisum | Yes | |
| Oregon Swallowtail | French Tarragon | Artemesia dracunculus ‘sativa’ | Yes |
| Giant Swallowtail | Gas Plant | Dicamnus spp. | Yes |
| Rue | Ruta graveolens | Yes | |
| Silver Spotted Skipper | Licorice | Glycyrrhiza spp. | |
| Gray Hairstreak | Hops | Humulus lupulus | Yes |
| Sage | Salvia spp. | Yes | |
| Red Admiral | Hops | Humulus lupulus | Yes |
| White Peacock | Lemon Balm | Melissa officinale | Yes |
| Mint | Mentha spp. | ||
| Cabbage White | Nasturtium | Tropaeolum majus | Yes |
| Fritillaries | Sweet Violet | Viola odorata | Yes |