10 Stunning Shrubs With Purple Flowers That Attract Butterflies

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10 Stunning Shrubs With Purple Flowers That Attract Butterflies

There's nothing like the sight of a butterfly fluttering around in your garden. Not only are these pollinators delightful to watch, they also play an important role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem by aiding in plant reproduction. One way to attract more butterflies to your garden is by planting shrubs with purple flowers. In this article, we'll go over the benefits of butterfly-friendly shrubs with purple blooms and factors to consider when choosing them.

Benefits of Butterfly-Friendly Shrubs with Purple Flowers

Butterflies are attracted to nectar-rich flowers, and shrubs with purple blossoms are some of their favorites. By planting these types of shrubs, you can create a haven for these delicate creatures. Here are some other benefits of growing butterfly-friendly plants:

• Helps with pollination: Butterflies play an essential role in pollinating plants, so by attracting them to your garden, you're helping to ensure healthy crops.
• Adds color and interest: Shrubs with purple flowers come in a range of shades and add visual interest to any landscape.
• Low-maintenance: Many types of butterfly-friendly shrubs are hardy and require minimal care once established.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shrubs with Purple Blooms

Before you head to your local nursery to pick up some butterfly-friendly shrubs, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some things you should think about before making your selection:

• Climate: It's essential to choose shrubs that are well-suited to your climate zone so that they will thrive and continue to attract butterflies.
• Size: Consider the size of the shrub at maturity and how it will fit into your landscape.
• Soil: Some shrubs prefer specific soil types, so it's essential to select plants that will grow well in your garden soil.
• Light requirements: Some shrubs require full sun, while others thrive in partial shade. Make sure to choose the right plants for your light conditions.

Now let's take a look at ten stunning shrubs with purple flowers that butterflies can't resist!

1. Buddleia 'Black Knight'

Description

Also known as the butterfly bush, this shrub is a favorite of many species of butterflies. Its narrow spikes of fragrant, deep purple flowers bloom from midsummer to fall and are irresistible to pollinators. It grows up to six feet tall and wide and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Prune annually in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
• Water deeply during periods of drought.

2. Lavender Rhododendron

Description

This evergreen shrub produces showy clusters of lavender-pink blooms in the spring. Its compact size (up to four feet tall and wide) makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or as a foundation planting. It prefers partial shade and acidic soil.

Growing Tips

• Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
• Avoid planting in locations with strong, hot afternoon sunlight.

3. Lilac Shrubs

Description

While lilacs are often associated with their traditional pale purple blooms, there are many varieties that produce deeper shades of lavender or even deep violet. Lilac shrubs can grow up to fifteen feet tall and prefer full sun and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Plant in areas with good air circulation to prevent mildew.
• Prune after blooming to encourage new growth and maintain a compact shape.

4. Rhododendron 'PJM'

Description

This evergreen shrub produces abundant clusters of deep purplish-pink flowers in the early spring. Its compact size (up to six feet tall and wide) makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens. It prefers acidic soil and partial shade.

Growing Tips

• Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
• Avoid planting in areas with hot afternoon sun.

5. Hibiscus

Description

This tropical beauty produces enormous blooms in deep shades of purplish-red that last for several days. It grows up to eight feet tall and wide and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Mulch around the base of the plant to help conserve moisture.
• Water regularly during periods of drought.

6. Purple Leaf Sand Cherry

Description

This deciduous shrub produces clusters of tiny pink to white flowers in the spring, followed by small, ornamental cherries. Its striking purple foliage adds interest to any garden. It grows up to ten feet tall and wide and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Prune in the late winter or early spring to maintain shape.
• Water deeply during periods of drought.

7. Smokebush

Description

This unique shrub produces clusters of tiny, fluffy purple flowers that resemble smoke. Its medium-green leaves turn shades of red and orange in the fall. It grows up to twenty feet tall and wide and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Prune annually in late winter or early spring to promote new growth.
• Water deeply during periods of drought.

8. Summer Sweet

Description

Also known as Clethra alnifolia, this deciduous shrub produces spikes of fragrant lavender flowers in mid to late summer, making it a great choice for late-season color. It grows up to eight feet tall and wide and prefers partial shade and moist, acidic soil.

Growing Tips

• Mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
• Water regularly during periods of drought.

9. Weigela

Description

This deciduous shrub produces abundant clusters of trumpet-shaped, deep purple blooms in late spring or early summer. It grows up to six feet tall and wide and prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Prune after blooming to encourage new growth.
• Water deeply during periods of drought.

10. Butterfly Bush 'Royal Red'

Description

This deciduous shrub produces clusters of deep purplish-red flowers and is one of the best plants for attracting butterflies to your garden. It grows up to ten feet tall and wide and prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Growing Tips

• Prune heavily in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth.
• Water deeply during periods of drought.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Shrubs with Purple Flowers and Butterfly Appeal

While there are many shrubs with purple flowers to choose from, the ten listed above are excellent options for attracting butterflies to your garden. Remember to consider factors such as climate, size, soil, and light requirements when making your selection. With a little planning and care, you can create a haven for these delicate creatures and add visual interest to your landscape.

Here are some common questions that people have about butterfly-friendly shrubs with purple flowers:

Are all shrubs with purple flowers attractive to butterflies?

No, not all shrubs with purple flowers are attractive to butterflies. It's important to select plants that are nectar-rich and appealing to pollinators.

What should I look for in a shrub to attract butterflies?

Look for shrubs with blooms that are deep enough for butterflies to land on and that produce ample nectar.

Do I need to plant multiple shrubs to attract butterflies?

While planting several types of butterfly-friendly plants can create a more enticing habitat, even one shrub that provides food and shelter can help attract butterflies.

When is the best time to plant butterfly-friendly shrubs with purple flowers?

The best time to plant shrubs is usually in the spring or fall to give them time to establish their roots before extreme heat or cold sets in.

How do I care for my shrubs to ensure that they continue to attract butterflies?

Most butterfly-friendly shrubs require minimal care once established. Make sure to water during periods of drought and prune as necessary.

What other plants can I add to my garden to attract more butterflies?

Other plants that attract butterflies include milkweed, coneflower, lavender, and sage.

Are shrubs with purple flowers and butterfly appeal low-maintenance?

Many types of shrubs with purple flowers and butterfly appeal are hardy and require little maintenance once established.

Can I use butterfly-friendly shrubs with purple flowers as foundation plants for my home?

Yes, many of these shrubs are suitable as foundation plants and can add visual interest to your home's exterior.

Where can I purchase butterfly-friendly shrubs with purple flowers?

You can find butterfly-friendly shrubs at most nurseries or garden centers.

Is it possible to propagate butterfly-friendly shrubs with purple flowers from cuttings?

Yes, it is possible to propagate shrubs from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.