The black swallowtail is a common butterfly found in a variety of habitats because its larval host plants are often cultivated by people.

Caterpillars feed on members of the parsley family including carrots, dill, parsley and Queen

Anne's lace (sometimes known as wild carrot). Wild parsley, another common roadside weed, is used as well.

Common native plants of this family such as golden alexanders are also used.