Alligator Flag

Alligator Flag (Thalia geniculata) is a common plant to Florida's waterways and wetlands. This water loving plant has broad lance shaped simple leaves that grow on tall stalks, from which the common name of 'flag' derives. The orchid-like purple flowers bloom on stalks up to ten feet in height.

Closely related to Canna Lily, Alligator Flag is also a host plant of the Brazilian Skipper (Calpodes ethlius). These larvae are leaf rollers so spotting a Thalia leaf with a caterpillar is a easy task. Look for leaf shelters along the edges of the leaves secured with bits of silk. If you have a persistent wet area or pond, try out one of these lovely flags in your butterfly garden.