BUTTERFLIES, TREES, AND STONES

Nature is arranged by a brilliant yet simple strategy: everything must work together for the good of the whole. When we look at an Alder tree, for example, we see its beauty and form. But do we look and note that the Alder is often home to Tiger Swallowtail Butterflies?

Frankly, I never even knew until recently that Butterflies enjoyed different host trees. This evening I read a bit and learned some marvelous tidbits about the symbiotic relationship between trees, plants, stones and Butterflies. I'll share a few, as I know that Zen Riders love nature.

The White Admiral prefers Linden trees. Tiger Swallowtails enjoy not only Alders but Maples as well. The Silver Spotted Skipper (I've yet to be introduced to one of these lovelies) likes to live in the Mimosa tree. [And I always thought that a Mimosa was a Brunch beverage.]

The Mourning Cloak crows for Poplars; and the Spring Azure adores Dogwood.

Butterflies also choose their habitat in reference to plants. Monarchs moan for Milkweed; the American Copper coughs it up for Sheep Laurel. Most weirdly, the Red Admiral admires Nettles. [Ouch.]

Were one to plan a garden to entice Butterflies one need follow just a few simple horticultural rules. First, locate your garden in a sunny area. Second, use large splashes of color in the landscape design as groups of flowers are easier for Butterflies to locate when they are at cruising altitude. [They might miss a single nettle, but not an entire cluster.]

And finally, place large flat stones in the gardens as Butterflies like to perch on warm stones to bask. [Duh, who doesn't like to do that?]

My next home will be planned with these rules in mind. One big stone will be for my Butterfly friends. The other will be for us two-legged folk that enjoy lying back on warmed stones to share stories, dreams, and concerns.