Shade-Tolerant Perennials That Attract Birds and Butterflies

Trees

• Trees are the preferred nesting place of a variety of birds and butterflies because this puts them and their nest out of harm’s way. The disadvantage to this is high wind. Often their nests are knocked out of trees. Redbud, anise, magnolia, American elm and weeping willow are a few of the many trees that are shade tolerant. In addition to providing a food and shelter source for various birds and butterflies, they are also a host plant for a variety of butterfly larvae.

Shrubs

• Some birds and butterflies prefer to nest in shrubs, especially if those shrubs are bushy or have thorns. Such environments are ideal because they can get inside of the shrub while larger animals, such as cats, have difficulty reaching their nests. Another advantage of shrubs is that they are close enough to the ground that high wind is not usually an issue. Shrubs that tolerate shade while attracting butterflies or birds include: privet, sweet shrub, viburnum, dogwood, holly, lilac and spicebush.

Herbaceous Perennials

• Herbaceous perennials are plants whose foliage dies completely down to the ground, but they manage to return from their own root system year after year. A number of shade-tolerant herbaceous perennials attract birds and butterflies into the garden. Ajuga, bee balm, cardinal flower, columbine, Indian pink, hosta, lupine, echinacea and salvia are all good choices. When planting flowering plants in the shade, remember that if they prefer full sun, they may not flower as prolifically.

Bulbs

• Virginia bluebells, tiger lilies, spider lilies and irises are ideal for growing in shaded areas. In addition to attracting birds and butterflies, these plants — which emerge from bulbs — are ideal for adding a splash of color. Areas in part shade or with intermittent shade, which means the sun is filtered by a large tree or building, is best. Plant these bulbs in groups of three, five or seven for best results. Remember that birds and butterflies choose the plants from which they sip nectar by the way the plant looks, so the more plants they can see, the more likely they are to land.