15 Powerful Plants to Attract Dragonflies and Say Goodbye to Mosquitoes for Good

Summer evenings should be filled with joy, not the irritating buzz of mosquitoes that leave itchy bites and spread diseases like West Nile and Zika.

Thankfully, dragonflies – nature’s graceful mosquito hunters – can turn your backyard into a serene retreat.

By planting the right greenery, you’ll not only create a stunning garden but also enjoy peaceful, mosquito-free nights under the stars.

#1. Water Lilies

Water lilies offer essential habitats for dragonfly larvae.

The pads provide shade, which helps to maintain cooler water temperatures – ideal conditions for dragonfly nymphs.

Additionally, the submerged parts of the plant serve as a hiding place for these juveniles, offering protection from predators.

#2. Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia)

Arrowhead is an exceptional native plant that flourishes in wetlands, marshes, and shallow waters.

Its striking arrow-shaped leaves and charming white flowers entice both dragonflies and other creatures, creating a bustling ecosystem in your garden.

#3. Horsetail (Equisetum)

The tall, reed-like stems of horsetailcreate vertical space that allows dragonflies to rest and scan their surroundings for potential prey.

Besides, horsetail plants contribute to the overall biodiversity of your garden.

They act as a natural filter, improving water quality as they absorb nutrients and pollutants.

#4. Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Swamp milkweed thrives in moist soil, making it ideal for wetland gardens while providing essential nectar sources for dragonflies.

In addition to supporting adult dragonflies, swamp milkweed is a favorite among monarch butterflies for laying eggs.

#5. Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata)

The dense root system of pickerelweed stabilizes shorelines and prevents erosion, contributing positively to the health of your pond or stream bank.

These roots also provide shelter for dragonfly nymphs, as the underwater habitat becomes complex and enriching for aquatic life.

#6. Meadow Sage (Salvia pratensis)

Meadow sage’s attractive flowers are a beacon for dragonflies, bees, and butterflies alike.

The flat, daisy-like flower clusters of meadow sage offer landing spots for dragonflies as they hunt for prey.

This design encourages dragonflies to linger in your garden, effectively keeping mosquito populations at bay.

#7. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)

Joe-Pye weed is a showy, tall plant that acts as a magnet for dragonflies.

The arrangement of the Joe-Pye weed flowers offers a resting spot for dragonflies, who can observe their surroundings from above the floral display.

#8. Water Mint (Mentha aquatica)

The aromatic foliage and small purple flowers of water mint attract dragonflies and contribute to the overall health of your garden.

The scent of water mint is not only pleasant for humans but serves as a natural deterrent against some pests.

#9. Cattails (Typha)

Cattails provide important habitats for dragonfly larvae and adults.

The dense stands of cattails create a safe environment for dragonflies to hunt efficiently while offering protective cover from larger predatory species.

#10. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a hardy perennial and an excellent nectar source for dragonflies.

Specially, this low-maintenance plant can be utilized in wildflower gardens, borders, or meadows.

#11. Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

The lotus boasts large, showy flowers that float gracefully on the water’s surface. They also offer a habitat for dragonfly nymphs.

The submerged portions of the plant create intricate environments for young dragonflies, allowing them to develop before emerging as adults.

#12. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

Cardinal flowers thrive in moist conditions, making them compatible with water gardens or stream banks.

Their ability to adapt to various environments ensures that they can support dragonflies and foster healthy wildlife populations.

#13. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

Black-eyed Susans are cheerful wildflowers with bright yellow petals and dark centers.

These wildflowers act as a nectar source for dragonflies, bees, and butterflies alike.

#14. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Butterfly weed is a crucial plant for the lifecycle of monarch butterflies, attracting these iconic pollinators to your garden.

As dragonflies prey upon the abundant insects attracted to the flowers, they maneuver efficiently through the vibrant blooms.

#15. Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)

The bold yellow blooms of marsh marigold bring a splash of color to your garden, catching the attention of passing dragonflies.

It naturally attracts dragonflies and creates an engaging environment for them to hunt and breed.