Q.Duranta-Can You Tell Me If It Is A Host Plant For Any Insects? I Want Native Plants Beneficial To Host Insects. Live In MD-21784
I don’t want plants that are invasive, not native, or are beneficial to only a few insects. Looking to expand my gardens yet I only have a small yard so I need to be very choosy. I want the insects, caterpillars, birds…

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Your best bet is to research the best annuals, perennials, and shrubs native to your area to attract butterflies and native bees. By planting a variety of nectar-rich plants, along with host plants for butterflies indigenous to your area, a plethora of insects and their predators will arrive to your microclimate. Reach out to your local extension service, library, and internet for the best plants for your location. Here is info to get you started:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/what-is-extension-service.htm
https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/plants_wildlife/butterfliesofmaryland.aspx
https://mdflora.org/resources/publications/gardenersguidelines/gguidelines03.pdf
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/duranta/care-of-duranta-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/hgen/flowering-herbs-for-bees.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/pollinator-friendly-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/why-butterflies-matter.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/beneficial/attracting-butterflies.htm
https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Documents/butterfliesofmaryland_biological-summary_checklist.pdf