Bees are some of the most important pollinators on the planet, playing a crucial role in plant reproduction and the health of our ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, planting a variety of flowers that attract bees is a beautiful and impactful way to support these vital insects. Plus, bee-friendly blooms bring vibrant color, fragrance, and life to any garden space.
In this article, we’ve compiled 45 stunning flowers that attract bees—from bright wildflowers and elegant perennials to fragrant herbs and charming shrubs. Each plant on this list not only enhances your garden’s beauty but also serves as a rich nectar and pollen source for honeybees, bumblebees, and native solitary bees.
Whether you’re planning a full pollinator garden or simply want to add a few bee-friendly choices to your landscape, this guide will help you choose the best flowers that attract bees. And with pictures included, you’ll easily find the perfect blooms to match your style while supporting nature’s busiest workers.
Annual Flowers That Attract Bees
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
Sunflowers are iconic blooms known for their tall stems and large, golden-yellow flower heads that follow the sun throughout the day. These cheerful annuals come in a variety of sizes, from dwarf to giant varieties, and their broad central discs are packed with pollen and nectar—making them a favorite among bees and other pollinators.
They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained soil with moderate moisture. Sunflowers are easy to grow from seed and can tolerate a range of soil types, though they perform best in nutrient-rich, slightly alkaline soil. Regular watering is needed until they’re well-established, after which they become relatively drought-tolerant.
Sunflowers are grown widely across USDA hardiness zones 2 through 11. Their large flower heads act like landing pads for bees, offering a rich source of pollen and nectar. Because they bloom in mid to late summer, they provide food for bees when other flowers may be fading.
Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are colorful, daisy-like flowers that bloom in a variety of bright hues, from red and pink to orange and purple. These cheerful annuals produce abundant blooms on bushy plants and are highly attractive to pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.
They grow best in full sun and well-draining soil. Zinnias are relatively low-maintenance and require only moderate watering. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season. They’re best started from seed directly in the garden after the last frost.
Zinnias are suited for USDA zones 3 through 10 and are highly valued for their long blooming period. Bees are drawn to their open-faced flowers and easy access to nectar, making zinnias a perfect choice for pollinator gardens.
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus)
Cosmos are delicate, airy annuals with feathery foliage and daisy-like flowers that sway on slender stems. Blooming in shades of white, pink, and purple, cosmos offer a long flowering season and create a wildflower feel in the garden.
They prefer full sun and tolerate poor soil conditions, which makes them incredibly easy to grow. Cosmos need minimal watering and thrive on neglect, as overly rich soil or excess watering can lead to fewer blooms. Deadheading helps extend the bloom time through summer into fall.
Cosmos are well-suited to USDA zones 2 through 11. Their open, flat flowers provide easy access to nectar and pollen for bees, which frequently visit them during the warmer months. They’re especially valuable in naturalized or cottage-style gardens.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are bright, aromatic flowers known for their bold gold, orange, and yellow hues. They are widely appreciated for their pest-repelling properties and long-lasting blooms, which also make them a great companion plant in vegetable gardens.
These annuals grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. Marigolds are easy to care for, requiring only moderate watering and occasional deadheading to encourage more blooms. They’re tough plants that tolerate heat and a wide range of soil conditions.
Marigolds can be grown in USDA zones 2 through 11. While not all types are equally attractive to bees, single-flowered varieties offer easier access to pollen and nectar, making them better choices for pollinator-friendly gardens. Their bright color and prolonged bloom period help keep bees coming back.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Calendula, also known as pot marigold, produces cheerful, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow and orange. Beyond their beauty, calendula blooms are edible and valued for their medicinal properties, adding both charm and utility to garden beds.
This cool-season annual prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in well-drained, moderately rich soil. Calendula needs regular watering but is relatively low-maintenance. Deadheading helps extend the blooming season from spring through early fall.
Suitable for USDA zones 2 through 11, calendula is a magnet for pollinators. Bees are particularly fond of its open flowers that provide easy access to nectar and pollen. It’s a favorite in herb gardens and cottage gardens designed to support beneficial insects.
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus)
Snapdragons feature tall spikes of tubular flowers in a wide range of colors, from pastel pinks to deep reds and purples. Their unique dragon-shaped blooms open when pressed, making them popular among children and gardeners alike.
They thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer rich, well-drained soil. Snapdragons are best grown in cooler temperatures and can be planted in early spring or fall. They benefit from regular watering and fertilization, especially during their active bloom period.
Snapdragons grow well in USDA zones 7 through 11, though they can be grown as annuals in cooler climates. Bumblebees, in particular, are drawn to their deep, nectar-rich flowers and are strong enough to open the flower’s “jaws” to reach the nectar inside.
Cleome (Cleome hassleriana)
Cleome, also known as spider flower, is a tall, eye-catching annual that produces clusters of spidery blooms in shades of pink, lavender, white, and rose. Its long stamens and airy structure give it a whimsical look that stands out in any pollinator-friendly garden.
It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. Cleome is drought-tolerant once established and doesn’t require much maintenance aside from occasional watering in dry spells. It’s best to space plants widely, as they can grow tall and bushy with good air circulation.
Cleome grows well in USDA zones 2 through 11 as an annual. Bees are highly attracted to its open, fragrant flowers and are frequent visitors during the summer bloom period. Its height and long-lasting blooms also make it a strong feature in back borders or cottage gardens.
Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)
Alyssum is a low-growing, ground-hugging annual that produces masses of tiny, sweet-scented flowers in white, pink, or purple. Its dense floral clusters provide both visual appeal and fragrance, making it a great choice for edging, containers, or hanging baskets.
It prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained soil. Alyssum is remarkably easy to grow, needing minimal care aside from occasional watering during dry weather. It often reseeds itself and can bloom continuously from spring through fall in cooler climates.
Alyssum is suitable for USDA zones 2 through 11 and is loved by bees for its abundance of small nectar-rich flowers. Its extended blooming season makes it a consistent source of food for pollinators throughout the growing season.
Bachelor’s Buttons (Centaurea cyanus)
Bachelor’s Buttons, also known as cornflowers, are charming annuals known for their vivid blue blooms, though pink, white, and purple varieties also exist. Their papery, fringed petals and upright stems add a classic wildflower look to any bee-friendly space.
They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, and they’re especially easy to grow from seed. Bachelor’s Buttons are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal care. Deadheading helps prolong the flowering season from late spring into early summer.
These flowers are perfect for USDA zones 2 through 10. Bees are particularly drawn to the bright blue varieties, which offer easy access to both nectar and pollen. Their traditional appearance makes them ideal for meadow plantings or informal borders.
Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower) (Tithonia rotundifolia)
Tithonia, or Mexican Sunflower, is a bold and vibrant annual that produces fiery orange or red daisy-like blooms on tall, sturdy stems. The plant adds height and color to gardens while acting as a powerful magnet for pollinators.
It thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil with moderate watering. Tithonia is heat-tolerant and thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it a perfect summer performer. It benefits from staking in windy areas due to its height, which can reach 4 to 6 feet.
Mexican Sunflowers grow well in USDA zones 3 through 10. Bees are strongly attracted to their vivid color and nectar-rich centers. These flowers are also a favorite among butterflies and hummingbirds, creating a lively pollinator hotspot in any sunny garden.
Larkspur (Delphinium consolida)
Larkspur is an elegant annual with tall flower spikes adorned with delicate, spurred blossoms in shades of blue, pink, white, and purple. Its stately structure adds vertical interest and old-fashioned charm to pollinator gardens and borders.
It grows best in full sun to light shade and prefers cool weather and rich, well-drained soil. Larkspur can be tricky to grow in hot climates but thrives with adequate moisture and good air circulation. It is typically direct-seeded in the fall or early spring.
Larkspur performs well in USDA zones 3 through 7. Its tall spires and abundant blooms attract bees, especially bumblebees, who seek out the nectar hidden in its uniquely shaped flowers. It’s an excellent choice for cottage gardens and naturalistic plantings that support beneficial insects.
Perennial Flowers That Attract Bees
Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Bee Balm is a vibrant, fragrant perennial known for its tubular blooms that come in shades of red, pink, lavender, and white. The flowers form rounded clusters on tall stems and are a favorite not just for bees, but also for butterflies and hummingbirds.
It grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers rich, moist, well-drained soil. Bee Balm enjoys consistent moisture and benefits from good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms throughout the summer.
Bee Balm thrives in USDA zones 3 through 9. Its uniquely shaped flowers are rich in nectar, making them a top choice for attracting bees of all kinds, including honeybees and native bumblebees. The long blooming period ensures a reliable food source for pollinators.
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Black-Eyed Susan is a classic wildflower featuring golden-yellow petals surrounding a dark brown central cone. These hardy perennials or biennials are beloved for their cheerful appearance and their ability to attract a wide variety of pollinators.
They grow well in full sun and tolerate poor to average soils, provided they are well-drained. Black-Eyed Susans are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established, making them ideal for naturalized areas, borders, and pollinator gardens.
Best suited for USDA zones 3 through 9, Black-Eyed Susans bloom from midsummer into fall. Bees are drawn to their daisy-like flower heads, which offer accessible pollen and nectar. Their long blooming season provides reliable food for pollinators through late summer.
Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Coneflowers are sturdy, drought-tolerant perennials known for their daisy-shaped blooms with purple petals and a raised, spiky central cone. They are both ornamental and functional, adding beauty to gardens while attracting many pollinators.
They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and can handle heat, drought, and even poor soils. Coneflowers are easy to grow and require little maintenance. Once established, they bloom profusely from early summer to fall and are excellent for naturalized plantings.
Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, Coneflowers are magnets for bees, offering nectar-rich blooms with easy access. Their long flowering period and upright structure make them perfect for supporting both bees and butterflies in sunny garden spaces.
Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)
Milkweed is a native wildflower best known as the host plant for monarch butterflies, but it’s also a valuable nectar source for many species of bees. Its clusters of star-shaped flowers come in colors ranging from pink and orange to white and red.
It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, with certain species adapted to different conditions—like swamp milkweed for moist areas and butterfly weed for dry sites. Milkweed requires little maintenance and can naturalize in the landscape over time.
Milkweed species can be grown in USDA zones 3 through 9 depending on the variety. Bees are especially drawn to milkweed’s sweetly scented, nectar-rich blooms. Planting milkweed not only supports pollinators but also helps in monarch conservation.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow is a hardy perennial that produces flat-topped clusters of tiny flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, or red. Its fern-like foliage adds a soft texture to garden beds, and it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
It prefers full sun and thrives in poor to average, well-drained soil. Yarrow is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care once established. Over time, it can spread by rhizomes, making it useful for naturalizing or filling large garden areas.
Yarrow grows well in USDA zones 3 through 9. Bees love the dense flower heads, which provide a generous supply of nectar and pollen over a long bloom period from late spring through summer. Its resilience and pollinator appeal make it ideal for low-maintenance wildlife gardens.
Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
Anise Hyssop is a fragrant perennial herb with tall spikes of lavender-purple flowers and licorice-scented foliage. Its showy blooms and aromatic leaves make it a standout in both herb and pollinator gardens.
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating drought once established. Anise Hyssop is easy to grow, and deadheading can promote a second flush of blooms. It’s also deer-resistant and often self-seeds, making it a low-maintenance favorite.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, Anise Hyssop is highly attractive to bees due to its long flowering season and rich nectar content. Its upright spikes provide easy access for pollinators, making it one of the top bee-friendly plants for summer gardens.
Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum)
Joe Pye Weed is a tall, native perennial that produces large, domed clusters of pale pink to purple flowers. Its towering presence and late-summer blooms make it a magnet for bees and butterflies in naturalized landscapes.
It prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist, rich soils, though it can adapt to average conditions. Joe Pye Weed is great for rain gardens, wet meadows, or back borders and requires minimal care once established.
Suitable for USDA zones 4 through 9, Joe Pye Weed provides a critical late-season nectar source for bees, especially native bumblebees. Its height and mass of blooms make it a valuable anchor plant in pollinator-focused designs.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Goldenrod is a resilient native perennial known for its bright golden-yellow flower plumes that bloom in late summer and early fall. Despite its reputation, it does not cause allergies—ragweed is the true culprit—and is extremely valuable to pollinators.
It grows well in full sun and adapts to various soil types, including poor or sandy soils. Goldenrod is drought-tolerant and thrives in open meadows, prairies, and garden borders. Some species can spread aggressively, so choose clump-forming varieties for smaller gardens.
Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, Goldenrod provides a vital nectar source for bees during the late season when few other plants are blooming. It supports a wide range of native bees and plays a key role in the pollinator life cycle before winter sets in.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
Penstemon, also known as beardtongue, is a perennial with tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, red, and white. These elegant blooms sit atop slender stems and are favored by pollinators for their shape and abundance.
It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, performing best in drier conditions. Penstemon is drought-tolerant, easy to grow, and works well in rock gardens, prairie plantings, or xeriscapes. Pruning after flowering can encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Penstemon is suitable for USDA zones 3 through 8 depending on the species. While hummingbirds love the flowers, bees—especially long-tongued species—also visit frequently to collect nectar from their deep throats.
Sedum (Stonecrop) (Sedum spp.)
Sedum, or Stonecrop, is a diverse group of succulents with fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. Varieties range from ground-hugging mats to upright clumps, making them versatile for garden design.
They prefer full sun and thrive in poor, rocky, or sandy soils with excellent drainage. Sedum is highly drought-tolerant and requires almost no maintenance once established. The flower heads are long-lasting and often persist into winter, providing visual interest.
Most Sedum species are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9. Bees are especially drawn to the late-season blooms, which are rich in nectar when other flowers are fading. Sedum offers essential support to pollinators preparing for winter.
Blazing Star (Liatris) (Liatris spicata)
Blazing Star is a striking native perennial with tall, spiky flower stalks covered in fluffy, lavender-purple blooms. Its vertical structure and long-lasting flowers add texture and height to gardens, making it a standout in pollinator landscapes.
It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating drought once established. Blazing Star is low-maintenance, deer-resistant, and prefers open meadows, prairie gardens, or sunny borders. Cutting back in early spring helps maintain its form year after year.
Blazing Star thrives in USDA zones 3 through 9. Its nectar-rich flowers bloom from top to bottom and are a major draw for bees, especially native solitary species and bumblebees. The prolonged bloom time offers consistent food during the late summer season.
Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is a fragrant perennial herb beloved for its silvery foliage and spires of purple to blue flowers. Its aromatic blooms are not only beautiful but are also highly attractive to pollinators, especially honeybees.
It prefers full sun and well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Lavender is drought-tolerant, requires minimal watering, and benefits from regular pruning to maintain a tidy shape and encourage reblooming. It’s ideal for borders, herb gardens, and containers.
Lavender is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9 depending on the species. Its flowers are loaded with nectar, and bees flock to them during the warm months. Lavender’s long flowering period and sweet scent make it a pollinator magnet in any sunny garden.
Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)
Coreopsis, often called tickseed, is a cheerful perennial or annual flower with daisy-like blooms in bright shades of yellow, red, orange, or bi-color. It has a long bloom period and a light, airy appearance that adds movement and charm to gardens.
This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating drought and poor conditions. Coreopsis is easy to grow, requires little care, and can self-seed or spread gently depending on the type. Deadheading can extend the blooming season.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, Coreopsis provides abundant nectar and pollen that attract bees all summer long. Its open-faced flowers are easy for bees to land on, making it one of the most dependable choices for supporting pollinators.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian Sage is a woody perennial known for its silvery-gray foliage and tall sprays of small, lavender-blue flowers. This airy, aromatic plant creates a soft, cloud-like effect in the garden while drawing a wide array of pollinators.
It prefers full sun and well-drained, dry to average soil. Russian Sage is extremely drought-tolerant once established and requires very little maintenance aside from a yearly pruning in early spring. It’s ideal for xeriscaping, borders, and cottage gardens.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, Russian Sage blooms from midsummer into fall, providing late-season nectar to bees when other sources are dwindling. Its abundant, small flowers offer a buffet of food that keeps bees buzzing from plant to plant.
Herb Flowers That Attract Bees
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is a fragrant annual herb best known for its culinary uses, but its small, tubular white or purple flowers are a hidden gem for pollinators. When allowed to bloom, basil becomes a magnet for bees and other beneficial insects.
It thrives in full sun and rich, well-drained soil, with regular watering to keep the leaves lush. While many gardeners pinch off flowers to promote leafy growth, letting a few plants flower will reward you with both seeds and pollinator activity.
Basil grows well in USDA zones 10 through 11 as a perennial, but is widely cultivated as an annual in cooler zones. Its clusters of tiny blooms are packed with nectar, making it highly attractive to bees, especially in late summer when few other herbs are flowering.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Thyme is a low-growing, aromatic perennial herb with tiny, pale pink to lavender flowers that bloom in dense clusters. Its ground-hugging habit makes it perfect for garden borders, rock gardens, or as a fragrant ground cover.
This herb prefers full sun and well-drained, sandy soil. Thyme is drought-tolerant, thrives in poor soil, and requires minimal care once established. Occasional trimming after flowering helps maintain its shape and encourages denser growth.
Thyme is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. When in bloom, it’s a favorite among honeybees and native bees alike. The small flowers may seem modest, but they offer abundant nectar and pollen, especially appreciated in sunny, dry gardens.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano is a perennial herb with spreading growth and small, delicate flowers that range from white to pink or purple. When allowed to bloom, oregano becomes a lively gathering place for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, preferring drier conditions once established. Oregano is low-maintenance, tolerant of poor soils, and ideal for herb gardens, containers, or borders. Pruning after flowering can extend its blooming season.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, oregano blooms in mid to late summer, offering nectar when many other herbs have finished. Its dense clusters of flowers provide easy access for bees, making it a reliable and aromatic pollinator-friendly herb.
Mint (Mentha spp.)
Mint is a vigorous, spreading herb known for its fragrant foliage and clusters of small, tubular flowers in white, pink, or lavender. Its blooms are highly attractive to bees, particularly when grown in clumps where pollinators can forage easily.
It prefers partial to full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Mint spreads rapidly and can become invasive, so it’s often best grown in containers or confined garden beds. Regular harvesting and pruning help control its growth and promote flowering.
Mint is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, depending on the species. Its blooms are nectar-rich and bloom through summer into early fall, drawing in honeybees, bumblebees, and many native species. The abundance of flowers and long blooming period make mint a pollinator haven.
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)
Chives are a clump-forming perennial herb that produce charming, spherical purple flower heads in late spring to early summer. Their edible blooms are not only visually appealing but also rich in nectar, making them a favorite among bees.
They grow best in full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in herb gardens, borders, and containers. Chives are cold-hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and benefit from occasional division to stay vigorous.
Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9, chives bloom early in the season when bees are emerging and in need of food. Their round, clustered flowers offer easy access to nectar and pollen, making them an excellent early-season resource for pollinators.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
Rosemary is a woody, evergreen herb with needle-like leaves and delicate, tubular flowers in shades of blue, white, or pink. While it’s prized in the kitchen, its blooms are also a valuable nectar source for bees, especially during mild seasons.
It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating drought and poor conditions once established. Rosemary thrives in containers or as a perennial border plant, and it benefits from occasional pruning to encourage branching and flower production.
Hardy in USDA zones 8 through 10, rosemary can be grown as an annual in colder climates. Its early and long-lasting blooms attract honeybees and native bees, offering vital nectar during cooler months when other flowers are scarce.
Coriander (Cilantro) (Coriandrum sativum)
Coriander, known as cilantro when referring to its leaves, produces delicate umbels of tiny white to pale pink flowers when it bolts. Though often grown for culinary use, its blossoms are a hidden gem for pollinators, especially small native bees.
It grows best in full sun to light shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Cilantro tends to bolt quickly in warm weather, but letting it flower encourages seed production (coriander) and supports pollinators during the transition.
Coriander is grown as an annual in all USDA zones. Its dainty flowers are highly attractive to hoverflies, small bees, and beneficial insects, offering accessible nectar across a wide area. Gardeners often allow a few plants to bloom just for the bees.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel is a tall, feathery-leaved herb with large, umbrella-shaped clusters of yellow flowers. Both ornamental and edible, fennel is an excellent pollinator plant that draws in a variety of beneficial insects, including bees.
It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in open garden spaces and herb beds. Fennel is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance once established, though it should be spaced carefully as it can self-seed prolifically.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, fennel blooms from midsummer into fall. Its nectar-rich flowers provide essential food for bees, and their wide, flat structure offers easy landing pads for a variety of pollinators and predatory insects.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Lemon Balm is a bushy, lemon-scented perennial herb that produces small white to pale yellow flowers. Though subtle in appearance, its blossoms are highly attractive to bees, particularly when planted in clusters.
It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Lemon Balm is easy to grow and spreads readily, so occasional trimming or container planting helps manage its growth. Regular pruning encourages new leafy growth and late-season blooms.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, Lemon Balm flowers in mid to late summer. The blossoms may be small, but they offer abundant nectar, attracting a steady stream of bees throughout their bloom time—making it a quiet but powerful pollinator plant.
Shrubs and Trees That Attract Bees
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
Butterfly Bush is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub known for its long, cone-shaped flower spikes in shades of purple, pink, white, or blue. While it’s famous for attracting butterflies, bees are equally drawn to its sweetly scented, nectar-rich blooms.
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating drought once established. Butterfly Bush benefits from annual pruning in early spring to maintain shape and encourage prolific flowering. It’s ideal for borders, pollinator gardens, and sunny hedges.
Hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9, this shrub blooms from midsummer into fall when other nectar sources may be dwindling. Its tubular flowers provide excellent forage for both bumblebees and honeybees, offering long-lasting food through the season.
Bluebeard (Caryopteris) (Caryopteris x clandonensis)
Bluebeard, also known as Blue Mist Spirea, is a compact, deciduous shrub with aromatic foliage and soft, fluffy clusters of blue to violet flowers. Though smaller in size, it’s a powerful magnet for late-season pollinators.
It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat and drought with ease. This low-maintenance shrub requires little pruning aside from shaping in early spring. It pairs well in mixed borders or as a flowering foundation plant.
Bluebeard is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. Its mid to late summer blooms provide much-needed nectar for bees when many other plants have finished flowering. The open structure of the blooms makes it easy for pollinators to access food.
Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
Lilac is a beloved spring-flowering shrub known for its dense clusters of fragrant, lavender to white blooms. While admired for its nostalgic scent, its early-season flowers are an excellent nectar source for emerging bees.
It prefers full sun and well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Lilac requires minimal care once established but benefits from light pruning after blooming to encourage future flower production. It’s perfect for hedges or as a standalone garden feature.
Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7, lilac blooms in mid to late spring. Its heavily scented flowers attract bumblebees, solitary bees, and even the occasional honeybee, helping to support pollinators at the start of the growing season.
Spirea (Spiraea spp.)
Spirea is a versatile deciduous shrub with small, clustered flowers in white, pink, or red depending on the variety. Its neat growth habit and profuse flowering make it a staple in landscape design and a valuable plant for pollinators.
It grows well in full sun to light shade and prefers moderately moist, well-drained soil. Spirea is very low-maintenance, and some types bloom more than once if lightly pruned after the first flowering.
Spirea thrives in USDA zones 4 through 9. Its dense flower clusters are a reliable nectar source, especially for bees and other small pollinators. Some species bloom in early spring while others continue into summer, providing ongoing support for insect life.
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
Hawthorn is a small, ornamental tree or large shrub with clusters of white to pink flowers that bloom profusely in late spring. Though spiny, it offers a wealth of nectar and pollen, making it highly valuable to bees.
It prefers full sun and well-drained soil but is adaptable to various conditions including poor, rocky soils. Hawthorn is ideal for hedgerows, wildlife gardens, and native plant landscapes. It also produces red berries in fall that feed birds and small mammals.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, Hawthorn flowers attract a broad range of bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, and mason bees. The spring blossoms offer a reliable early-season food source, while the plant’s structure supports wildlife year-round.
Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
Redbud is a small, ornamental tree that produces vibrant pink to magenta flowers in early spring, often before its heart-shaped leaves appear. Its striking floral display covers bare branches and provides vital early-season nectar for pollinators.
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. Redbud is easy to grow and low-maintenance, making it ideal for home gardens, woodland borders, and native landscapes. Prune lightly to maintain structure after flowering.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9, Redbud flowers in early spring when few other plants are blooming. Its blossoms are rich in nectar and attract native bees, including queen bumblebees and carpenter bees emerging from winter dormancy.
Dogwood (Cornus spp.)
Dogwoods are beloved flowering trees and shrubs that produce clusters of small, star-like flowers surrounded by large, showy bracts. Their early blooms and graceful form make them a staple in ornamental gardens and woodland landscapes.
They prefer partial shade and consistently moist, well-drained soil, though many species also tolerate full sun. Dogwoods benefit from a layer of mulch and occasional pruning to remove deadwood or shape the canopy.
Most dogwood varieties are hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. Their springtime flowers attract native bees and small pollinators. Later in the season, dogwood fruits provide food for birds, enhancing their value to wildlife and pollinator-friendly gardens.
Willow (Salix spp.)
Willows are fast-growing trees or shrubs with long, flexible branches and narrow leaves. In early spring, they produce fuzzy catkins loaded with nectar and pollen, which are a crucial food source for bees awakening from winter.
Willows thrive in full sun and moist to wet soils, often found near streams, ponds, or other low-lying areas. They grow rapidly and may require pruning to manage size and shape, especially in smaller landscapes.
Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9 depending on species, willows bloom very early—sometimes before the snow has fully melted. Their catkins are vital for honeybees and solitary bees when other floral sources are unavailable.
Linden (Basswood) (Tilia spp.)
Linden, also known as Basswood, is a stately deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves and fragrant clusters of pale-yellow flowers in early to midsummer. The sweet-smelling blossoms are incredibly rich in nectar, making them a favorite for bees.
It prefers full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Linden trees are best suited for larger landscapes, city parks, or as street trees. They require little care once established, though occasional pruning helps maintain structure.
Hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, Linden blooms in early summer and is renowned for its ability to draw pollinators in droves. Beekeepers value Linden as a source of high-quality honey, thanks to its abundant nectar and prolonged blooming period.
Fruit Trees (Apple, Cherry, Plum, Peach, etc.)
Fruit trees like apple, cherry, plum, and peach are not only productive but also highly attractive to bees during their spring bloom. Their showy blossoms offer ample nectar and pollen, helping support pollinators while setting the stage for fruit development.
These trees grow best in full sun with well-drained soil and benefit from regular pruning to encourage airflow, flower production, and healthy fruit. Pollination is essential for yield, so planting multiple trees or companion varieties can boost success.
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 depending on species and variety, fruit trees bloom in early to mid-spring. Their abundant flowers provide essential forage for honeybees, mason bees, and bumblebees, making them invaluable in both home orchards and wild habitats.
