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tabasco
Cincinnati (Anderson, OH
(Zone 6a)
May 11, 2008
4:38 PM Post #4937602
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Hi, butterfliers, It's that season again where I become obsessed with attracting the most butterflies into our yard. I realized last year that I didn't have much here for the Red Admirals and I have been a bit perplexed by what would be a good choice for a host plant or two for them in our yard.
Here is what the "Butterflies and Moths of North America" says about their host plants:
(Red Admiral) Caterpillar hosts: Plants of the nettle family (Urticaceae) including stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), tall wild nettle (U. gracilis), wood nettle (Laportea canadensis), false nettle (Boehmeria cylindrica), pellitory (Parietoria pennsylvanica), mamaki (Pipturus albidus), and possibly hops (Humulus).
Now, my question is: Which of these is most "Garden Worthy"? I have had wild nettles in the yard by mistake from a mulch delivery. I also have a Hops vine, but is that the same as 'Humulus'? Or do they mean a Hops Tree? I also have Echinops Ritro which may or may not be a host (I forget).
Anyway, can one of you more experienced butterfliers comment on what you grow for 'Red Admiral' host plants and where you grow it? (Like 'out back by the shed' or 'in the front garden--it's so beautiful', or 'in my meadow' to give me an idea of where to make a space.
Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks. t.
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