Planting non native plants to encourage wildlife?

Louise B

Hello, I was wondering about opinions on using non native plants to encourage wildlife? I was thinking about the plants I've planted recently for their wildlife friendly properties and the majority of them aren't native. I've still got a lot to plant so should I perhaps make a conscious effort to go native even if the plants aren't as productive for wildlife? When you say wildlife, do you think native or are any invasive species welcome too?

Yviestevie

I choose varieties that are better for wildlife but I must admit I don't always go for native species. 

Dovefromabove

What sort of wildlife are you trying to encourage LouiseB?

If you're providing nectar-rich flowers for bees and butterflies etc, give a thought to their larval stages - what are they going to eat?  Many butterfly and moth caterpillars only feed on specific native plants - take note of the types of butterflies and moths that visit your garden, and look up the food plants for their caterpillars and grow them