Lavender Lady Bush & Butterflies

Butterflies

• Lavender plants are part of the mint family. As such, they are heavy producers of nectar, which makes them very attractive to butterflies, according to the University of Minnesota Extension's website. Monarchs in particular enjoy the nectar. Lavender plants are only attractive to adult butterflies as a source of nectar, however, and not as place to lay eggs. Butterfly larvae generally prefer other plants as a source of food, such as daisies and honeysuckle.

Culture

• Lavender "Lady" bushes need proper culture to produce the fragrant flowers and nectar that is so attractive to butterflies. They grow best in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5B through 8. These plants thrive in full sunlight and soil that is on the dry side -- in fact, they grow better in poor soil than in rich, fertile soil, according to the Michigan State University Extension website. Trim the plants back in early spring to remove tips killed by winter temperatures and to promote new spring growth.

Problems

• Most problems with L. angustifolia plants stem from overly wet soil. This can lead to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Pluck off affected foliage and make sure the plant is located in a well-draining area. Protect the plant from winter injuries in the coldest growing zones by piling up mulch around the base in the fall. This way, your plant will be healthy come spring and put forth blooms to that will last and attract butterflies all summer long.

Considerations

• Butterflies aren't the only insects attracted to this plant. Bees love lavender, and will flock to hover among the blooms. For this reason, home gardeners who are have children or who themselves are sensitive to stings may not want to plant "Lady" lavender bushes near walkways or areas where people gather.