Creating a garden that invites bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds is not just a way to enjoy a vibrant, buzzing landscape; it’s also a step toward supporting local ecosystems. Native plants are particularly well-suited for this purpose because they co-evolved with local pollinators, making them the perfect food source. They require less maintenance, thrive in local climates, and often provide essential shelter and nourishment to wildlife.
Below, we’ll explore the top 15 native plants that can turn your garden into a sanctuary for these vital pollinators.
1. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Milkweed is the sole host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars, making it critical for their survival. Its nectar also attracts hummingbirds and bees.
Best Varieties for Pollinators:
- Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
- Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
Growing Tips:
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
- Avoid pesticides, as they can harm monarch caterpillars.
2. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Why It’s a Winner:
This striking wildflower is a magnet for bees and butterflies, thanks to its large, nectar-rich blooms.
Additional Perks:
- Drought-tolerant.
- Provides seeds for birds like goldfinches in fall.
Growing Tips:
- Thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
- Deadhead flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
3. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Why It’s a Winner:
Its vibrant yellow flowers draw bees and butterflies, while the seeds provide food for birds.
Additional Perks:
- Blooms from summer to fall, offering a long nectar season.
Growing Tips:
- Tolerates poor soil but thrives in full sun.
- Self-seeds easily for a naturalized look.
4. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
As its name suggests, bee balm is a favorite of bees. It also attracts hummingbirds with its tubular flowers.
Best Varieties for Pollinators:
- Scarlet Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
Growing Tips:
- Prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
- Space plants to improve air circulation and prevent mildew.
5. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Goldenrod’s late-season blooms provide essential nectar for bees and butterflies when other plants have finished flowering.
Additional Perks:
- Supports over 100 species of butterflies and moths.
Growing Tips:
- Plant in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Combine with asters for a stunning fall display.
6. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Why It’s a Winner:
The vibrant red blooms of cardinal flower are irresistible to hummingbirds.
Additional Perks:
- Adds dramatic vertical interest to gardens.
Growing Tips:
- Prefers moist, rich soil and partial shade.
- Divide plants every few years to maintain vigor.
7. Asters (Symphyotrichum spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Asters bloom late in the season, providing a crucial nectar source for migrating butterflies like monarchs.
Best Varieties for Pollinators:
- New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
- Smooth Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
Growing Tips:
- Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
- Cut back in midsummer for bushier growth.
8. Blazing Star (Liatris spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Its tall spikes of purple flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds alike.
Additional Perks:
- Perfect for prairie-style gardens.
Growing Tips:
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
- Tolerates drought once established.
9. Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Why It’s a Winner:
The unique, bell-shaped flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds and bees.
Additional Perks:
- Adds charm to woodland gardens.
Growing Tips:
- Thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil.
- Self-seeds but is easy to manage.
10. Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
This towering perennial produces nectar-rich clusters of pink flowers that attract butterflies, including swallowtails.
Additional Perks:
- Thrives in damp, low-lying areas.
Growing Tips:
- Prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
- Cut back in early spring to promote vigorous growth.
11. Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Known as "beardtongue," penstemon’s tubular flowers are ideal for hummingbirds.
Best Varieties for Pollinators:
- Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus)
- Foxglove Penstemon (Penstemon digitalis)
Growing Tips:
- Thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil.
- Avoid overwatering, as it dislikes wet feet.
12. Lupine (Lupinus spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Lupines are excellent for attracting bees and butterflies while also fixing nitrogen in the soil.
Additional Perks:
- Perfect for cottage gardens or meadow plantings.
Growing Tips:
- Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
- Mulch to keep roots cool in summer.
13. Sunflowers (Helianthus spp.)
Why It’s a Winner:
Bees flock to sunflower blooms, and their seeds provide food for birds like chickadees.
Best Varieties for Pollinators:
- Wild Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Growing Tips:
- Plant in full sun.
- Stake taller varieties to prevent them from toppling.
14. Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea)
Why It’s a Winner:
This native prairie plant is a favorite of bumblebees and other native bees.
Additional Perks:
- Fixes nitrogen in the soil.
Growing Tips:
- Thrives in full sun and sandy, well-drained soil.
- Combine with grasses for a prairie-style garden.
15. Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)
Why It’s a Winner:
These early bloomers provide nectar for bees emerging in spring.
Additional Perks:
- Adds a woodland feel to shaded gardens.
Growing Tips:
- Prefers moist, rich soil and partial shade.
- Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming.
Tips for Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
- Provide Continuous Blooms: Plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times to ensure a consistent nectar source.
- Go Native: Native plants are more likely to thrive in your local climate and support local wildlife.
- Avoid Pesticides: Opt for organic gardening methods to protect pollinators.
- Add Water Sources: Place shallow dishes of water or birdbaths in your garden.
- Provide Habitat: Include plants with dense foliage for shelter and areas for nesting.
Conclusion
By incorporating these native plants into your garden, you’re not just enhancing its beauty—you’re creating a haven for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These pollinators play a vital role in food production and biodiversity, and your garden can be a part of this critical ecosystem.
With the right plants and a little effort, you can enjoy a thriving, buzzing garden that supports nature and brings joy season after season.