Quick Answer
Polydamas swallowtail (Battus polydamas) caterpillars feed on pipevines, plants in the genus Aristolochia, also called birthworts or Dutchman’s pipe. Sources on this butterfly describe it as relying on this plant group, so planting a pipevine is the main way to support it.
About the Butterfly
Polydamas swallowtail, sometimes called the gold rim swallowtail, is mainly a butterfly of the Gulf Coast states and Florida in the United States, and it ranges south through the tropics. Its dark wings have a pale yellow band along the edge. It can occasionally turn up beyond its usual range, but a garden far from the Southeast may not see it. If you are outside that area, a pipevine may instead attract other pipevine-feeding butterflies native to your region.
Pipevine Host Plants
Several Aristolochia species are reported as hosts:
- Woolly Dutchman’s pipe (Aristolochia tomentosa): native to parts of the eastern and southeastern U.S.
- Florida Dutchman’s pipe (Aristolochia pentandra): a small native vine of Florida and the Gulf region.
- Tropical, non-native species such as calico flower (Aristolochia elegans) and pelican flower (Aristolochia grandiflora), which are often sold as ornamentals in warm regions.
Choosing a Pipevine for Your Garden
Where possible, choose a pipevine species native to your area. Native plants fit local conditions and avoid the risks of introducing a non-native vine. Some gardeners and extension sources have raised concerns that certain tropical pipevines can harm caterpillars of other butterflies, such as the native pipevine swallowtail, and some can spread aggressively. Check with your local extension office or native plant society before planting a non-native pipevine.
Buy plants from a nursery that does not use systemic insecticides, since these can harm caterpillars that feed on treated leaves.
What to Expect From the Caterpillars
Polydamas swallowtail caterpillars are reported to feed in groups when young. They can strip a small vine quickly, so a few well-established plants are better than one tiny seedling. Pipevines contain aristolochic acids, and the caterpillars store these compounds, which is thought to make them unpalatable to predators. Expect leaf damage and plan for the vine to recover, or plant extras.
Nectar Plants for Adults
Adult butterflies also need nectar. Commonly suggested plants include native verbenas, native lantanas where appropriate for your area, porterweed, and coneflowers. Choose plants native to your region where you can, and avoid planting species listed as invasive locally.
Other Swallowtail Host Plants
Many people searching this topic are really looking for other swallowtails. Briefly:
- Black swallowtail: plants in the carrot family, such as parsley, dill, fennel, and native golden Alexanders.
- Eastern tiger swallowtail: trees such as tulip tree, wild cherry, and ash.
- Spicebush swallowtail: spicebush and sassafras.
- Giant swallowtail: citrus and prickly ash.
Cautions
Pipevines are generally considered toxic if eaten, so consider this if you have young children or pets that chew on plants. Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin. If you are unsure about a plant’s identity or its status in your area, ask a local expert.
FAQ
How do I keep a swallowtail caterpillar alive? Leave it on its host plant if possible. If you bring one indoors, provide fresh leaves of the correct host plant and keep it ventilated. Many people find it simpler to protect the plant rather than raise caterpillars.
What do yellow swallowtail caterpillars eat? That depends on the species. Tiger swallowtails use trees such as tulip tree and wild cherry.
Can I grow pipevine in a pollinator garden outside the South? Possibly, with a species native to your area, but the polydamas swallowtail itself is unlikely to benefit there. For other plants that suit butterflies in dry gardens, see our guide to drought resistant butterfly plants.