Hawaii

This butterfly garden resource provides a complete list of butterflies found in Hawaii, along with their preferred nectar flowers and the host plants they look for to lay eggs that the butterfly caterpillars can feed on. For advice on starting a butterfly garden, see our guide, How to Make a Butterfly Garden

As one of the most isolated island chains in the world, Hawaii is host to a small number of butterflies. There are only two native species of butterflies (Kamahameha Lady and Hawaiian or Blackburn's Blue). The other species of butterflies have been introduced to the islands. Hawaii's climate is very consistent and stable, with only two seasons: summer (May to October) and winter (November to April). The average daytime temperature of this tropical state is about 78 degrees Fahrenheit and the nighttime average dips to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Some of the most popular flowers for butterflies to visit are: aster, bougainvillea, cosmos, hibiscus, impatiens, ixora, lantana, marigolds, butterfly bushes, verbena, zinnia, ko'oko'olau, nehe, and 'ohi'a leua. Visit your local nursery or horticultural center to determine which plants will work best for your garden.



Below is a list of nectar and host plants that will grow well in Hawaii. Most butterflies eat nectar from flowers, though some eat sap, dung, and other things. This list features some of the most popular plants frequented by butterflies.