If you’ve ever dreamed of your yard bursting with fluttering orange Fritillary butterflies, Passion Vine is the plant you need. This beautiful vine isn’t just eye-catching—it’s the host plant for these butterflies, meaning it’s where they lay their eggs.
Soon after, tiny caterpillars hatch and begin munching on the leaves for nourishment. It’s a magical transformation to watch—these hungry little larvae grow bigger each day, and within just 2 to 3 weeks, they form their chrysalises.
Here’s the fun part: several chrysalises often appear at once, and if you watch them daily, you’ll notice them start to shake—a sure sign that a butterfly is about to emerge. Don’t blink—you’ll want to catch this moment!
Yes, your Passion Vine may look a little “loved on” by the end of the season, but the reward is unforgettable: a front-row seat to the butterfly life cycle, right in your own backyard.
Pro Tip: Combine host plants and nectar plants in your garden to support butterflies at every stage of life and attract a wider variety of species.
Want more tips? Check out our Butterfly Gardens in North Texas for everything you need to create a butterfly haven!