Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Plant)
I chased a butterfly around yesterday afternoon, a tiny one named Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas). It did not let me approach very close so the pictures just give a hint of what it looks like in person.
It lit on a brick edging of the meditation circle, so here you can get an idea of the relative size.
Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas)
I had to enlarge the image a lot to show detail. Can you make out the tail?
Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas)
The Eastern Tailed-Blue moved onto clover in the grass and eventually I could see the wings open.
Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas) – center
Wings partly open:
Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas) -below and right of center
Here it is enlarged with the wings open.
Eastern Tailed-Blue (Cupido comyntas)
Another Silver-spotted Skipper visited yesterday enticed by the ever popular verbena bonariensis. It moved around quickly also but stayed let me near for pictures.
Silver-spotted Skipper (Epargyreus clarus)
Silver-spotted Skipper (Epargyreus clarus)
I saw one Monarch butterfly 6 weeks ago, April 13, 2021, when there was little blooming for it to enjoy. The southern side path is ready for them now. The Asclepias tuberosa has more light this year and has responded accordingly.
Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Plant)
pbmGarden 
They can’t help themselves from stopping with those gorgeous butterfly weed plants. I’ve planted a half or dozen or so and none of them come back the following spring. I certainly enjoyed seeing yours. 🙂
Thanks. I’ve lost some over the years but this particular spot seems suitable. It’s never been so full before.
I can imagine you trailing that butterfly with your camera in hand, Susie! I’ve done the same albeit generally less successfully.
Ha!Ha! Yes, neighbors probably wonder at me chasing all around the garden but it’s fun.
Well done, you must have lots of patience!
Patience for those few minutes at least! Thanks Pauline.
I am only focused on your amazing butterfly plants.
Thanks Judy. It’s most unusual for it to be so filled out.
That is a gorgeous clump of butterflyweed. Great pics of the Eastern Tailed Blue.
Thanks. The butterfly weed is bigger than I’ve ever seen. There’s one seedling that’s taken hold too.
And the butterfly year is only just beginning! The little ‘blues’ are so pretty and we get similar ones here, but they are impossible to capture with the camera!
The past few years I’ve really enjoyed watching out for butterflies. Glad you enjoy them too.