Pair Butterflies to Their Host Plants

Behind every fluttering butterfly is a story of survival—and it often starts with the right plant. Before they take to the skies, butterflies live as caterpillars, and during that stage, they depend on host plants for food. But not just any plant will do—each butterfly species has evolved alongside specific greenery. Can you match these butterflies to the plants their larvae need to thrive?

          ➡️ Connect Flowers to Their Blooming Seasons

This challenge reveals the essential relationships between butterflies and the flora they rely on. Whether you're a gardener aiming to attract pollinators or a curious naturalist learning about ecosystems, understanding these plant-insect connections is key to supporting biodiversity.

Nature's Nursery

Monarchs and milkweed are perhaps the most famous pair. Without milkweed, monarch caterpillars can’t survive. But they’re far from the only duo. The black swallowtail prefers parsley and other members of the carrot family. The delicate painted lady? She loves thistle and mallow. Each match is the result of evolution and adaptation over thousands of years.

          ➡️ Beautiful Garden Flowers First and Last Letter Challenge

Some host plants are common garden herbs, others are wild native species. Knowing these links can guide conservation and pollinator-friendly planting. Want to see more butterflies in your backyard? Start by planting what their babies eat, not just what the adults sip nectar from.

Wings Begin in the Leaves

This isn’t just trivia—it’s a chance to understand the lifecycle of some of our most beloved insects. Match each butterfly to its essential host plant, and get to know the quiet, leafy side of their story. From wild meadows to backyard gardens, this is how butterflies begin.