My influx of polydamas swallowtail caterpillars have almost all went into their chrysalis.
There are a few left still munching away on some Dutchman pipe, their host plant.
Today, on this glorious 4th of July, the first of probably dozens, has emerged.
This one marks 169 that we have successfully raised and released. Since it did not want to leave my finger, I left it on my purpletop vervain, which is doing incredibe with our daily down pours, so it can fly away when ready
A few weeks ago I began a new project garden, inspiration I saw from another garden. That project – identifying plants with garden metal labels.
I have done two different fonts and today completed all 25 labels I received using my cricut machine.
It has been a great project as it has given me the opportunity to take inventory of what I have. The great part, I still have more plants to identify.
I have tried to plant natives in the garden, as they can tolerate whatever weather Southwest Florida throws at them, and they multiple and fill in empty space quite nicely. A good example of this is the blanket flower and coreopsis, otherwise known as tickseed.
Here are a few of the flowers that have been identified so far.
I recently added the purpletop vervain, verbena bonariensis, to my garden.
I go to a few different places when seeking additional host plants, as I want to make sure it comes from a reputable place.
Although, this nursery is not local to Southwest Florida, the plants are shipped in amazing condition, and for me have done really well after planted in the garden. Joyful Butterfly is my online nursery, as it gives great information about the plant, what it attracts, and how you should care for it after delivered.
I love adding additional butterfly host plants to the garden. It is always a thrill when you can attract a new species to your designated space.
This is the host plant for the common buckeye. The nectar is also loved by such species as swallowtails, fritillaries, hairstreaks, painted ladies, queens, commas, sulphurs, and checkerspot butterflies, as well as bees and hummingbirds.
It grows best in zones 7-12, loves full to partial sun, and requires medium to dry moisture. It can grow 5-6 feet tall and should be spaced 1- 1 1/2 feet apart.
The flower is a gorgeous purple and reseeds readily.
