Dawn’s plants to welcome butterflies

Allium hollandicum ‘Purple Sensation’ Purple pompom flower clusters in May give butterflies early nectar and a large ‘landing pad’. H80cm (32in) S10cm (4in)

Verbena bonariensis Rigid stems hold clusters of lilac purple flowers Jun-Sept, providing a useful source of late nectar for pollinators. H2m (6½ft) S45cm (18in)

Hedera helix ‘Glacier’ A less-vigorous ivy cultivar with triple value: host plant for butterfly eggs, nectar from autumn flowers and winter hibernation spot. H and S2m (6½ft)

Echinacea purpurea ‘Magnus’ Reddish-pink daisy flowers July-Sept are perfect landing platforms in full sun for butterflies to rest and drink nectar. H1m (3ft 3in) S45cm (18in)

Hylotelephium ‘Purple Emperor’ This dark-leaved sedum has ruby-red flowers into October providing a vital source of late nectar. H and S45cm (18in)

Buddleja ‘Free Petite Series’ A butterfly bush is a must; try this dwarf cultivar in a pot if space is limited. Conical flower clusters July-Oct. H60cm (2ft) S70cm (28in)

Forget-me-not Low carpets of dainty yellow-eyed blue flowers offer useful early nectar April-June. Self-sows in sun or part shade. H30cm (12in) S15cm (6in)

Knautia macedonica From July-Sept, deep crimson pincushion flowers are held on tall, light stems and are a magnet for butterflies in full sun. H80cm (32in) S45cm (18in)

Lunaria annua Annual honesty is a nectar source May-June when its lilac flowers are out. A food plant for orange tip caterpillars. H90cm (3ft) S30cm (12in)

Aster amellus ‘King George’ With a good show of large, yellow-centred purple daisies Aug-Oct these provide a late nectar source in a sunny spot. H and S45cm (18in)