Well, I have at least two. These pics are washed out by the sun but it's evident that its a different one by the the little piece missing from the left forewing tip.

Rhonda

Sure looks like a Palamedes to me, Rhonda. Excellent photo. Looks like the butterflies are really enjoying your Mexican Sunflowers. They are excellent nectar sources. Two of mine are well past their prime and starting to die off. I have two others that still are doing well.

Keep posting your great photos, please.

Yes, it's a palamedes swallowtail - you've posted beautiful pictures!

Sherry

Thanks so much Sherry!

Awww that's cute in an odd sort of way :) it always amazes me how great nature is at camoflauging to protect the species: eyespot for example.

Tom,

This is my first year growing Mexican sunflower and I will definitely grow it next year. I know its not perennial where I am but do you think it will reseed? Or, should I collect seeds and start some in pots next spring for transplanting. Thanks for your advice.

Rhonda

There will be some reseeding, Rhonda, but the best bet is to let some of the flowers dry out completely and then save the seeds. What I do mostly with these plants is dead head them when the flowers are finished. The flowers that I cut have not developed seeds that are viable yet--at least I don't think they are. I had enough this year to grow what I needed.

What I'm thinking of doing next year, however, is to order the seeds again and put them in pots in the early spring. That way I will get enough for sure and at the right time and I will be able to place them exactly where I need them. The seeds are inexpensive--maybe five dollars or so for fifty.

Maybe send me an email, Rhonda. I don't think we live too far from each other.

Hey Tom. Thanks for all the info. If I ever mention a plant that I have, email me and I'll happily share seeds or cuttings if I can.

Rhonda

Rhonda, your Houzz profile does not have an email linked to it. I believe that mine does.

Tom,

I do have an email linked to my account but don't see the settings that allow me to share it. I can't find your email either when I click on your user name. Any suggestions? Thanks!

Rhonda

Click on the username of the person. Up in the right corner is a square that says "Message". That's how we email each other directly. You both are set up it looks like. This is one of those difficult things that turn people away from this site, but you've already got the hard part done!

Heidi

Thanks Heidi! I found it and just sent Tom a test message. Let's see if he receives it :)

Rhonda