The genus Lilium, known for its dramatic and often fragrant blossoms, is a popular feature in many gardens worldwide. These showy flowers, which bloom in a wide spectrum of colors, are frequently observed by gardeners hoping they will serve as a beacon for local wildlife. A common question among those aiming to support local ecosystems is whether these plants function as effective magnets for butterflies. The answer is nuanced, as the plant’s biological design often favors different types of winged visitors.
The General Relationship Between Lilies and Butterflies
Generally, true lilies (Lilium) are not considered a primary food source for butterflies compared to plants specifically adapted to them. The plant’s evolutionary focus is typically directed toward other pollinators. Many Lilium species rely heavily on large-bodied insects like bees, or even nocturnal visitors such as hawk moths, for pollen transfer. This means that a butterfly seeking a quick, accessible nectar meal will often bypass a lily for a more specialized flower nearby. The occasional visit by a butterfly is often opportunistic rather than a sign of a strong mutualistic relationship. Gardeners should view the Lilium genus as a generalist supporter of local insect populations rather than a dedicated butterfly attractant.
How Lily Structure Influences Pollination
The physical structure of the lily flower explains why it is not optimally suited for many butterflies, which feed using a long, slender proboscis. Lilies are characterized by six large tepals (combined petals and sepals), often forming a trumpet or funnel shape. Nectar is typically secreted into a slender groove at the base of each tepal, deep within the flower’s throat. This deep placement is often too narrow or distant for a butterfly’s proboscis to efficiently reach while maintaining a stable position. Many lily varieties lack the broad, flat surface necessary for a butterfly to comfortably land and probe for nectar. Butterflies generally prefer a stable platform to rest their wings and feet during feeding. While some varieties, like the Martagon lily, have a specialized recurved shape that facilitates pollen transfer, the overall floral architecture is usually a better fit for hovering pollinators, like hummingbirds, or for larger, climbing insects.
Specific Lily Varieties and Their Visitors
The Lilium genus encompasses a diverse range of forms, and different varieties attract different visitors. For instance, the heavily fragrant, large, outward-facing flowers of Oriental lilies, such as ‘Stargazer’, may attract large moths, especially those active at night. Conversely, the upward-facing, unscented blossoms of many Asiatic lilies are often visited by smaller bees and flies, and occasionally butterflies. Trumpet lilies, characterized by their long, tubular shape, are nearly exclusively pollinated by hawk moths, whose long proboscises are perfectly adapted to reach the deep nectar. It is also important to note the botanical distinction between true lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis). Other plants commonly called lilies, like Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes), are documented as being a good nectar source for butterflies.
Optimal Flowers for Attracting Butterflies
Gardeners focused on attracting butterflies should prioritize plants that offer specific structural features. The nectar itself should be abundant and readily accessible to a shorter proboscis. Butterflies prefer flowers that meet the following criteria:
- Flat, clustered blooms that provide an easy landing pad.
- Bright colors, such as red, yellow, orange, and purple.
Excellent plant choices include Milkweed (Asclepias), which serves as both a nectar source and the host plant for Monarch caterpillars. Other reliable attractants are Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) and the Butterfly Bush (Buddleia), known for its clustered, nectar-rich flower spikes. Incorporating these specialized plants will significantly increase the number of butterflies visiting a garden.