There are many climbing plants that can offer food, nectar and shelter for butterflies and moths. Here are some to try in your space.
This evergreen climber is a real superstar; providing food, nectar and shelter for over 100 different species of butterflies and moths. Caterpillars of 15 different species eat the leaves and buds, including those of the Holly Blue butterflies and elegant Swallow-tailed moths. In autumn, Ivy flowers are an important source of nectar for later flying butterflies such as Red Admirals and Commas. Mature clumps of ivy provide shelter for birds, mammals and many types of insects, including butterflies that spend the winter as adults, such as the Brimstone.
The tubular shaped, sweet-smelling flowers of honeysuckle are very attractive to moths, such as the Burnished Brass and the stunning Elephant Hawk-moth. Honeysuckle is also the caterpillar foodplant for 39 different species of butterfly and moth!
Jasmine flowers are particularly fragrant in the evenings, when their delicate scent attracts moths such as the Humming-bird Hawk-moths, who use their long tongues to reach the nectar at the base of the flower. Jasmine is also the caterpillar foodplant of Buff Ermine and Common Emerald moths.
Hop is an attractive climbing plant, more familiar for its use in beer making and dried as decorations. However, the leaves of hops are enjoyed by the caterpillars of Comma, Peacock and Red Admiral butterflies.
