I am not the only one to appreciate this new addition. Even though my plants are still small, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird has already discovered them and has been visiting them regularly. Supposedly, they are also loved by swallowtail butterflies, which can see the color red (unlike bees). Because of the deep-throated flowers, Royal Catchfly is suited for pollenation by butterflies, whose long proboscis can reach the nectar, as well as hummingbirds.

Royal Catchfly is native to my state of Illinois and my county (Cook) but is endangered. It has sticky hairs that trap small insects and digestive enzymes that will break down their bodies, although the plant itself does not consume its insect victims.