Explore Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
Can't find the answer in our existing FAQs, submit a question to Mr. Smarty Plants.
Need help with plant identification, visit the plant identification page.
rate this answer
Tuesday - June 19, 2007
From: Cedar Hill, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Wildlife Gardens
Title: Butterflies and larval hosts in Dallas County
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
My class is starting a butterfly habitat at school. We have researched plants that attract butterflies, however we forgot to look for plants that feed the caterpillars and we want to provide the experience of the caterpillars turning to cocoons, then butterflies. What plants are best for this process? We are in the Grand Prairie area close to Mountain Creek Lake.ANSWER:
Visit the Dallas County Lepidopterists' Society's excellent web site for a list of butterflies found in Dallas County and the larval host and nectar plants that support them. Also, there are several titles (e.g., "Butterfly Gardening Resources" and "Creating a Wildlife Garden") in our How to articles that should be helpful to you.
More Wildlife Gardens Questions
Understory plants for creek side in Austin
September 22, 2008 - We live along Shoal Creek in central Austin and would like to establish a natural balance of vegetation along the creek. We currently have a high tree canopy made up of native Cedar Elms. What would...
view the full question and answer
Host plants for Painted Lady Butterflies (Vanessa cardui)
August 22, 2009 - I am looking for host plants for the Painted Lady Butterfly that I can plant in my school's (I am a teacher) native plant/butterfly garden. As part of the curriculum, each Fall our 2nd graders study ...
view the full question and answer
Wildlife Habitat Restoration in Quebec, Canada
December 30, 2009 - Hi there.
What are the best trees and shrubs for wildlife restoration in Quebec? thanks!
view the full question and answer
Plants for a mixed hedgerow for privacy and for the birds
May 07, 2010 - What are the best native plants for a mixed hedgerow in a small backyard? I want privacy (heights 5'-10') and bird friendly.
Thank you for your information.
view the full question and answer
Bird attracting plants in Northeast U.S.
March 22, 2004 - What plants will attract birds in zone 6 (Northeast) in the spring and early summer?
view the full question and answer
 |
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. Mr. Smarty Plants wants you to be his Facebook friend. Click the Facebook icon to add yourself to Mr. Smarty Plants list of friends. |
