Boost Biodiversity by Planting These 5 Host Plants

If you’re looking to make a positive impact in your garden, growing native wildflowers and grasses is a great place to start. Not only do they add natural beauty, but many of these plants also serve as host plants for essential pollinators, providing food and habitat for caterpillars and other beneficial insects. Here are five native plants to consider, plus a bonus tip about trees and shrubs for supporting pollinator biodiversity.

1. Spotted Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum)

With its beautiful pinkish-purple flowers, Joe Pye Weed is a popular choice for restoration of moist sites—and it’s also a host plant for the Ruby Tiger Moth. By planting Joe Pye Weed, you’ll not only support pollinators like bees and butterflies but also support this moth’s larval stage. 

 

2. Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii)

Big Bluestem is a graceful, tall prairie grass. It’s also a host plant for the Common Wood Nymph butterfly, which lays its eggs on the grass to give caterpillars the perfect start in life. 

 

 

 

3. False Indigo (Baptisia spp.)

False Indigos are long-lived, striking plants with a shrub-forming habit. Various species bloom in yellow, blue, and white flowers in late spring. All three species of native Baptisia we carry are key host plant for the Frosted Elfin butterfly, creating a haven for this unique pollinator species. Wild Lupines are another host. 

 

4. Lanceleaf Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata)

Lanceleaf Coreopsis is a bright and cheerful native wildflower that attracts a range of pollinators. It’s an essential host for the Wavy-lined Emerald Moth, providing food and shelter for its caterpillars. This plant’s easy to grow nature and cheerful blooms make it an easy and impactful addition to any garden.

5. Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea)

Golden Alexanders bring clusters of sunny yellow flowers that light up a garden in early spring. This plant is a critical host for the Black Swallowtail butterfly, providing food for its caterpillars. Adding Golden Alexanders to your landscape helps support these striking butterflies while filling your garden with vibrant color.

 

Trees and Shrubs

Native trees and shrubs are also incredibly important for hosting pollinator biodiversity. In fact, certain tree genuses play a crucial role in feeding insects and caterpillars. Oaks (Quercus spp.) and willows (Salix spp.) lead the pack, supporting the most species of insects, which in turn support birds and other wildlife. Planting these trees and shrubs not only enhances your landscape’s beauty but also creates a rich, resillient ecosystem.

By incorporating these native plants, grasses, and trees into your garden, you’ll be supporting a thriving, diverse pollinator population and contributing to local biodiversity. Start small or go big—every plant makes a difference!