Creating a garden that attracts butterflies and bees is not only a rewarding endeavor but also an essential step in supporting local ecosystems. Pollinators like butterflies and bees play a critical role in the reproduction of flowering plants, including many crops that humans rely on for food. By incorporating native plants into your garden, you can provide these vital creatures with the nectar, pollen, and habitat they need to thrive. Native plants are particularly effective because they are adapted to local climates and soils, making them low-maintenance and highly attractive to regional pollinators. In this article, we’ll explore the top six native plants that are especially effective at drawing butterflies and bees, delving into their characteristics, benefits, and tips for growing them successfully.
Why Native Plants Matter for Pollinators
Before diving into the specific plants, it’s worth understanding why native plants are so important for butterflies and bees. Native plants have co-evolved with local pollinators, meaning their flowers are perfectly suited to the feeding habits and preferences of these species. For example, the shape, color, and scent of native flowers often align with the sensory capabilities of local bees and butterflies. Additionally, native plants provide host plants for butterfly larvae, which are essential for their life cycle. Non-native plants, while sometimes attractive to pollinators, may not offer the same ecological benefits and can even become invasive, outcompeting natives and disrupting ecosystems.
By choosing native plants, you’re not only supporting pollinators but also conserving water, reducing the need for pesticides, and promoting biodiversity. Below, we’ll highlight six native plants that are pollinator magnets, focusing on their appeal to butterflies and bees, their growing requirements, and their role in a thriving garden.
1. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)
Why It Attracts Butterflies and Bees
Milkweed is perhaps the most famous plant for attracting butterflies, particularly monarchs. Monarch butterflies rely on milkweed as their sole host plant, laying their eggs on its leaves, which the caterpillars then feed on. The plant’s clusters of star-shaped flowers, available in shades of pink, orange, and white, are rich in nectar, making them a favorite for both butterflies and bees. Native bees, such as bumblebees, are frequent visitors, drawn to the abundant pollen and nectar.
Characteristics and Benefits
Milkweed species vary by region, with common varieties including common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), and swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata). These plants are hardy, drought-tolerant (except for swamp milkweed, which prefers moist conditions), and thrive in full sun. Milkweed’s vibrant blooms appear from summer to early fall, providing a long-lasting food source for pollinators. Beyond its ecological value, milkweed adds bold color and texture to gardens, with its broad leaves and upright growth.
Growing Tips
- Location: Plant milkweed in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Swamp milkweed tolerates wetter conditions and is ideal for rain gardens.
- Care: Milkweed is low-maintenance and doesn’t require fertilization. Avoid pesticides, as they can harm caterpillars and bees.
- Variety Selection: Choose a species native to your region for best results. Check with local nurseries or native plant societies for recommendations.
- Caution: Milkweed sap is toxic to humans and pets, so handle with care and keep away from children and animals.
2. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Why It Attracts Butterflies and Bees
Purple coneflower is a pollinator powerhouse, with its large, daisy-like flowers featuring prominent spiky centers that serve as landing pads for bees and butterflies. The vibrant purple-pink petals attract a variety of butterflies, including painted ladies and swallowtails, while the nectar-rich centers draw native bees and honeybees. This plant blooms from early summer to fall, ensuring a steady food supply during peak pollinator activity.
Characteristics and Benefits
Native to the eastern and central United States, purple coneflower is a hardy perennial that grows 2–4 feet tall. Its long-lasting blooms and sturdy stems make it a favorite in both wildflower gardens and formal landscapes. Coneflowers are also drought-tolerant and resistant to pests, making them an easy choice for beginner gardeners. In addition to their pollinator appeal, the seed heads provide food for birds in the fall and winter.
Growing Tips
- Location: Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Coneflowers tolerate a range of soil types, including clay.
- Care: Water regularly during the first year to establish roots, then reduce watering as the plant becomes drought-tolerant. Deadheading can encourage more blooms, but leave some seed heads for wildlife.
- Propagation: Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor and spread the plant to new areas of your garden.
3. Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Why It Attracts Butterflies and Bees
Bee balm, also known as wild bergamot, is a magnet for both bees and butterflies thanks to its vibrant, tubular flowers that bloom in shades of red, pink, and purple. The flowers’ shape is ideal for long-tongued pollinators like bumblebees and butterflies, including monarchs and fritillaries. Hummingbirds are also frequent visitors, adding to the plant’s appeal in a pollinator garden. Bee balm’s aromatic foliage releases a minty scent, which can deter some garden pests.
Characteristics and Benefits
Native to much of North America, bee balm grows 2–4 feet tall and forms dense clumps that spread over time. Its blooms appear in mid to late summer, providing a critical food source during the height of the pollinator season. Bee balm is also valued for its medicinal properties, as its leaves can be used to make herbal teas. The plant’s bold colors and height make it a striking focal point in garden beds.
Growing Tips
- Location: Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Bee balm thrives in slightly richer soils than some other natives.
- Care: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in hot climates. Powdery mildew can be an issue, so ensure good air circulation by spacing plants 18–24 inches apart.
- Maintenance: Cut back in late fall to encourage healthy growth the following season. Divide every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding.
4. Blazing Star (Liatris spicata)
Why It Attracts Butterflies and Bees
Blazing star, also known as gayfeather, is a showy native plant with tall, feathery spikes of purple or white flowers that bloom from top to bottom. This unique blooming pattern makes it highly attractive to butterflies, such as monarchs and skippers, which can easily access the nectar. Bees, particularly native solitary bees, flock to the flowers for their abundant pollen. Blazing star’s long bloom time, from mid-summer to early fall, ensures a reliable food source.
Characteristics and Benefits
Native to the central and eastern United States, blazing star grows 2–5 feet tall and is highly adaptable to various soil types, including poor, rocky soils. Its grass-like foliage and upright spikes add architectural interest to gardens, and its drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance choice. Blazing star is also deer-resistant, a bonus for gardeners in areas with heavy wildlife pressure.
Growing Tips
- Location: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Blazing star tolerates drought but performs best with occasional watering during dry spells.
- Care: Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause floppy stems. Stake taller varieties if needed.
- Propagation: Grow from corms or divide established clumps in spring or fall to expand your planting.
5. Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Why It Attracts Butterflies and Bees
Goldenrod is often misunderstood as an allergen (it’s not; ragweed is the culprit), but it’s a superstar for pollinators. Its bright yellow flower clusters are a late-season favorite, blooming from late summer to fall when many other plants have faded. Butterflies, including monarchs migrating south, rely on goldenrod’s nectar, while bees stock up on pollen and nectar for winter. Goldenrod supports a diverse array of pollinators, including specialist bees that depend on it exclusively.
Characteristics and Benefits
With over 100 species native to North America, goldenrod varies in height from 1–6 feet, making it versatile for different garden designs. It thrives in poor soils and is highly drought-tolerant, requiring little care once established. Goldenrod’s vibrant color and long bloom time make it a standout in meadows, borders, and wildflower gardens. It also pairs well with other natives like asters for a stunning fall display.
Growing Tips
- Location: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Goldenrod tolerates a wide range of conditions, including sandy or clay soils.
- Care: Water sparingly, as goldenrod is prone to root rot in overly wet conditions. Cut back in late winter to promote new growth.
- Variety Selection: Choose compact varieties like Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’ for smaller gardens.
6. New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
Why It Attracts Butterflies and Bees
New England aster is a late-blooming native that lights up gardens with its purple, pink, or white daisy-like flowers from late summer to fall. Its nectar-rich blooms are a critical resource for butterflies, especially monarchs preparing for migration, and bees gathering food for winter. The plant’s vibrant colors and abundant flowers attract a wide range of pollinators, making it a must-have for any pollinator garden.
Characteristics and Benefits
Native to the eastern United States, New England aster grows 3–6 feet tall and forms bushy clumps that add volume to garden beds. Its long bloom time and adaptability to various soil types make it a reliable choice for gardeners. The plant is also deer-resistant and pairs beautifully with goldenrod and blazing star for a colorful fall display.
Growing Tips
- Location: Plant in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. Asters tolerate wetter conditions than many natives.
- Care: Pinch back stems in early summer to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Divide every few years to maintain vigor.
- Maintenance: Cut back after flowering to prevent self-seeding, if desired.
Creating a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
To maximize the impact of these plants, consider the following tips for designing a pollinator-friendly garden:
- Plant in Clusters: Group multiple plants of the same species together to make it easier for pollinators to find them.
- Provide Diversity: Include a variety of plants with different bloom times to ensure a continuous food supply from spring to fall.
- Avoid Pesticides: Chemical pesticides can harm butterflies, bees, and their larvae. Opt for natural pest control methods.
- Add Water Sources: A shallow dish with pebbles and water can provide a drinking spot for bees and butterflies.
- Include Host Plants: In addition to nectar plants, incorporate host plants like milkweed for butterfly larvae to support their full life cycle.
Conclusion
By planting native species like milkweed, purple coneflower, bee balm, blazing star, goldenrod, and New England aster, you can create a vibrant, pollinator-friendly garden that supports butterflies and bees while enhancing your landscape. These plants are not only beautiful and easy to grow but also critical to the survival of local pollinators. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, incorporating these natives into your yard is a meaningful way to contribute to biodiversity and ensure the health of our ecosystems. Start small, choose plants suited to your region, and watch as your garden comes alive with the hum of bees and the flutter of butterfly wings.