Ryan Fezz

Also known as Scarlet Flame and Cardinal's Guard and another scientific name: Thyrsacanthus tubaeformis, which may be a synonym but haven't had time to do any more research. http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1854...

I have it growing in my yard as well

You are correct, it is undoubtedly a Cassius Blue

There were two plants beside one another. In no way, shape or form could I describe the plant as abundant I am afraid

A wonderful find! Thank you so much for sharing!

Good point, I had the right family but was off a bit. This new suggestion should be it, I am quite sure.

Fyn Kynd, if this is indeed a Tiger Swallowtail as I surmise then you are incorrect, as typical female coloration of a Eastern Tiger Swallowtail is the standard yellow and black but features prominent blue at the base of the hindwing that the male mostly lacks. http://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/speci...

I am sure this is a female dark phase Tiger Swallowtail, her size, how she holds her wings, the lack of a yellow border at the top of the blue and the sheer amount of blue on the wings not what looks to be so faint yellow on the edge of the forewing one sometimes sees in these cases are all signs she is a Tiger.

How tall was it? With a shot of the leaves or more detail, the best I can do is a Rhexia spp. Or Meadow Beauty.

I never would have gotten it if you hadn't included the second shot of the basal leaves!