Male Monarch ButterflyEnlarge

MaleEnlarge	FemaleEnlarge
FemaleEnlarge

Life Cycle of Butterflies

Egg/LarvaEnlarge	CaterpillarEnlarge
ChrysalisEnlarge	EmergingEnlarge

Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

This spectacular species is one of the most popular and distinguished butterflies. It is a bright shade of brownish red to orange and is complimented by brown or black outlining the wings and highlighting the veins. The Monarch is one of the longest lived butterflies, living up to 9 months. Every year this butterfly makes an amazing journey, up to 3000 miles, as it migrates to warmer climates, such as Mexico. Even more amazing, the many generations of the butterfly return year after year to many of the same locations. Monarchs are fairly large butterflies and strong fliers; they enjoy open areas and love Milkweed. The monarch chrysalis is just as amazing. It is a shimmering green accented with gold, resembling priceless jewelry, a must-have in all Gardens With Wings™.

Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)

Subfamily: Milkweed Butterfly (Danainae)

Average Wingspan: 3 1/2" - 4"

Habitat: Open areas, meadows, fields

Similar To: Queen , Viceroy

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Butterfly Bush, Blazing Stars, Butterfly Milkweed, Coreopsis, Lantana, Common Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed , Blood Flower, Salvia
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Common Milkweed, Butterfly Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed , Blood Flower

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Male (open wing) - Fred Miller
Male (closed wing) - Fred Miller
Female (open wing) - Lynn Bennett Byrd
Female (closed wing) - Fred Miller
Egg/Larva - Diane P. Brooks
Caterpillar - Fred Miller
Chrysalis - Fred Miller
Emerging - Fred Miller