Bring on the butterflies

Here we are, halfway through July. We're right in the middle of the hot, humid days of high summer. And now the flowers that really bring in the butterflies are starting to bloom.

The double-blooming Susan is really showing off. I had one of these last year, but I planted it too close to the blanket flower and it got crowded out and died before I noticed. This year, it's got lots of space and its taking full advantage.

The cardinal flower I bought a few weeks back is getting ready to bloom. It's a native wildflower and is supposed to be a favourite of the hummingbird.

 The Bee Balm has gotten really tall (almost 3 feet) and is just starting to show off. I thinned it out this year, giving some to Mom and putting some in the side garden.

 The Cupid's Dart is loving the weather this year. Normally I don't get blooms until later, and then only one or two at a time.

If you want to attract butterflies to your yard - this is the plant - Echnicea (or Coneflower). This particular plant was started from seed several years ago and now its thriving - though I added several new varieties this year because it's and absolute butterfly magnet.

And last but not least, the white Liatris (sometimes called Gay Feather or Blazing Star) is starting to bloom. I have this in both white and purple. Like the Cardinal flower, it's native to this area and a great addition to a pollinator garden.

Now... if only I could get a few good snaps of those flying beauties....