4. Great Spangled Fritillary
(Speyeria cybele).
They are the most common
of the large fritillary
butterfly species.
These butterflies feed on a
variety of flowers including
thistle, milkweed, dogbane,
and verbena (as well as the
dianthus seen here).
The host plant for their
caterpillars is the spring
violet (commonly found
throughout our yard).
6. Blue Flag Iris
(Iris versicolor)
This species of iris grows in
the shallows of Caesar
Pond. It also seems to be
thriving in our garden
where we planted it into a
heavy, rich soil.
As long a muskrats don’t
forage in our garden, it will
be safe!