Butterfly Hatchery

Please stay on the paths to protect the caterpillars! This is a grove of native yellow passion vine (Passiflora lutea), a goldmine for wildlife. It is a larval host for at least 5 species of butterflies, including Gulf Fritillaries and Zebra Longwings. Its tiny, intricate flowers provide nectar for insects, and ripen into favored fruits for birds and small mammals. Additionally, this plant is the only known larval foodstuff of the Passionflower bee (Anthemurgus passiflorae), a solitary, ground-nesting bee whose native range extends from Central Texas north to Illinois. Because this plant is so ecologically valuable, we’ve devoted this space to letting it roam free. Hackberries, elbow bushes, and other small trees serve as natural trellises. Leaf litter and brush serve as habitat for butterflies to overwinter. 

Below: yellow passion vine, gulf fritillary caterpillars and adults.

Another climber found here is Talayote (Cynanchum racemosum). Because it is in the milkweed family, several sources list it as a host plant for Monarch and Queen butterflies. Data is scarce on this. In any case, Talayote is a lovely twining vine!

Interested in garden design for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife? Visit the Contact Page to get in touch!