A host plant is a specific plant species that certain insects, particularly butterflies and moths, rely on to complete their life cycle. These plants provide essential resources such as food for larvae (caterpillars) and a place for adults to lay eggs.

Notable Host Plants in Appalachia

1. Spicebush (Lindera benzoin):
   This shrub serves as a primary host for the Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio troilus). The larvae feed on its leaves, and the plant’s early spring blooms provide nectar for adult butterflies.
2. Pipevine (Aristolochia macrophylla):
   The Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor) exclusively uses pipevine as its host plant. The plant’s toxic compounds make the caterpillars distasteful to predators, offering them protection.
3. Pawpaw (Asimina triloba):
   The Zebra Swallowtail butterfly (Protographium marcellus) depends on pawpaw trees for its larvae. These trees are the sole host for this butterfly in most of the Appalachian region.
4. Wafer Ash (Ptelea trifoliata):
   This small tree is a host for the Giant Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio garamas) and the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus). The larvae feed on its leaves, and the plant’s aromatic foliage adds interest to landscapes.