Spotted Something Unusual on Your Plants? Don’t Be Too Quick to Remove It

Tending to a garden is one of life’s simplest joys. Watching your plants grow strong and harvesting fruits (yes, even those veggies that are technically fruits!) brings a deep sense of satisfaction. But gardening also comes with its fair share of struggles—chief among them: the constant battle with pests. In a world filled with insects, telling friend from foe isn’t always easy.

Recently, a photo caught my eye on social media—an up-close view of a leaf covered in tiny, intricate black patterns. At first glance, it looked like a disease or alien etchings. I wasn’t alone in my confusion; many viewers assumed something was wrong with the plant. But with a little investigation, the truth was revealed: those mysterious markings were actually butterfly eggs—specifically, the eggs of the Nymphalis antiopa, better known as the Mourning Cloak butterfly.

Meet the Mourning Cloak: A Hidden Gem of the Garden

If you’ve never encountered the Mourning Cloak butterfly before, you’re in for a treat. This understated yet extraordinary species plays a subtle but important role in your garden’s ecosystem.

Let’s start with those stunning eggs. They resemble fine black lace delicately draped over leaves—artwork courtesy of nature itself. Initially, they may spark concern (they did for me!), but once you realize what they are, you’ll view them with new appreciation.