 The
Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History has just
opened the exhibit Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution
which features an interior Butterfly Pavilion. The Pavilion
showcases multiple species of tropical butterflies as well
as over 250 nectar and pollen producing plants in an enclosed
climate-controlled setting.
The Horticulture Services Division supplies and cares for
the plants exhibited in the 500 square feet of planting
display space and assures that they are grown in a pesticide-free
environment. Over 100 plants are rotated into the Pavilion
several times a week in order to provide a constant source
of fresh nectar and pollen for the butterflies. When necessary,
spent plants are disposed of in accordance with USDA requirements.
The varieties of flowering plants highlighted in the Butterfly
Pavilion will change throughout the year depending on seasonal
availability.
More information
about Butterflies + Plants: Partners in Evolution |
