We all love the thought of butterflies in the garden, but are not prepared to live with chewed leaves. Behind most chewed leaves is a beautiful butterfly. Caterpillars will require a food source to develop.

Common annual weeds are a valuable nectar source for foraging adults and hungry caterpillars. It’s the best excuse in the world to use to avoid the worst task in the garden – weeding. It’s important to set aside an area to allow thistles, plantain, cape weed and clover to flower. In addition to weeds there are many plants that are suitable food sources for caterpillars.

Find a spot to plant one or two of the following and if space is limited they will all perform brilliantly in a large pot in a sunny position: