Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)
- Elevation range: 4,000-8,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Large, fast-growing tree reaching 40-60 ft tall
- Produces showy white flowers in spring that attract butterflies
- Provides excellent cover and resting spots for butterflies with its large, heart-shaped leaves
Western Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- Elevation range: 5,000-8,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Small, multi-trunked tree growing 20-30 ft tall
- Bears vibrant pink flowers in early spring that butterflies love
- Leaves turn beautiful yellow in fall, adding seasonal interest
Little-leaf Linden (Tilia cordata)
- Elevation range: 5,000-8,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Stately tree reaching 30-50 ft in height
- Produces small, fragrant yellow flowers in spring that attract butterflies
- Offers ample shade and shelter with its large, heart-shaped leaves
Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
- Elevation range: 5,000-8,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Deciduous shrub growing 8-15 ft tall
- Clusters of fragrant purple or white flowers in spring provide nectar for butterflies
- Large, heart-shaped leaves offer shelter and resting spots
Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)
- Elevation range: 5,000-9,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Multi-stemmed tree or shrub reaching 15-25 ft tall
- Abundant white flowers in early spring attract butterflies
- Leaves turn brilliant red, orange, and purple in fall
Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides)
- Elevation range: 5,600-11,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Tall, slender tree growing 30-65 ft high
- Smooth, greenish-white bark and small, dense leaves provide ideal butterfly habitat
- Offers beautiful yellow fall foliage
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
- Elevation range: 5,000-8,000 ft
- Prefers full sun to partial shade
- Small, multi-trunked tree growing 20-30 ft tall
- Vibrant pink flowers in early spring attract butterflies
- Leaves turn yellow in fall
By incorporating a variety of these deciduous trees into Colorado landscapes, gardeners and homeowners can create inviting habitats that support diverse butterfly populations throughout the seasons.
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