Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you.
Creating a bee garden with native plants is more than just planting flowers—it’s creating a small haven for pollinators that’s both beautiful and buzzing with life. Years ago, I added just three native plants for bees to my backyard and suddenly, it were filled with butterflies, bees, and even hummingbirds.
The best native plants for a thriving bee garden don’t only support honeybees, but they also help native bees survive longer. With each season, I added more native bee garden plants, and the yard it turned into a pollinator paradise.
Many gardeners overlook the best native plants for bee gardens and instead use imported species, which doesn’t always support local pollinators. These native plants for a thriving bee garden bloom naturally with the seasons, they attract different kinds of bees at different times. While choosing the best native plants for bees, make sure your zone and climate matches.
There’s no better way to bring nature back into your space than planting a bee garden with native plants. Try a few, and you might sees your outdoor space turn into something buzzing and bright.
Table of Contents
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea Purpurea)
The Purple Coneflower is a fantastic choice for your bee garden. With its vibrant purple petals and prominent center, it attracts bees and butterflies alike. It’s easy to grow and thrives in various conditions, making it a must-have for a thriving garden.
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia Hirta)
Black-Eyed Susans bring a splash of bright yellow to any garden, making them a favorite among gardeners and bees alike. These hardy plants are easy to grow and can thrive in various conditions, attracting pollinators with their cheerful blooms. Plant them in clusters for a stunning effect that will light up your bee garden!
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee Balm, with its vibrant flowers, is a real treat for pollinators. This native plant not only looks great in your garden but also attracts bees and butterflies with its sweet nectar. It’s easy to grow and adds a splash of color to any space, making it a must-have for a bee-friendly garden.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda Fistulosa)
Wild Bergamot is a fantastic addition to any bee garden. Its lovely purple flowers attract bees with ease, providing them with essential nectar. Plus, it’s a hardy plant that thrives in various conditions, making it a win-win for gardeners and pollinators alike.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
Blanket flowers are a colorful addition to any garden. These cheerful blooms attract bees with their bright yellow and red petals. They are easy to grow and thrive in sunny spots, making them perfect for a bee-friendly garden.
Goldenrod (Solidago)
Goldenrod is a fantastic plant for attracting bees to your garden. Its bright yellow flowers bloom in late summer and provide a crucial food source when other plants start to fade. Plus, it adds a cheerful splash of color to your outdoor space!
New England Aster (Symphyotrichum Novae-Angliae)
The New England Aster is a colorful addition to any bee garden. With its vibrant purple flowers and bright yellow centers, it attracts many bees and pollinators. This native plant blooms in late summer to fall, providing essential food for bees as they prepare for winter.
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium Purpureum)
Joe-Pye Weed is a fantastic addition to any bee garden, thanks to its tall, showy blooms. The fluffy pink flowers attract a variety of pollinators, making it a buzzing hotspot. Plus, it adds a lovely touch of color and height to your garden bed.
Culver’S Root (Veronicastrum Virginicum)
Culver’s Root adds a unique touch to any bee garden. The tall, slender spikes topped with white flowers attract various pollinators, making it a favorite among bees. Plus, it’s easy to grow and thrives in many garden settings.
Milkweed (Asclepias Tuberosa)
Milkweed is a star in any bee garden, especially for its bright orange flowers that attract bees and butterflies alike. This native plant is essential for monarch butterflies, as it serves as a host for their larvae. With minimal care, it can thrive in sunny spots, making it a fantastic choice for your garden.
Yarrow (Achillea Millefolium)
Yarrow is a fantastic choice for your bee garden. Its bright white flowers attract a variety of pollinators, making it a lively spot for bees. Plus, this hardy plant is easy to grow, thriving in many conditions.
Blue Vervain (Verbena Hastata)
Blue Vervain is a stunning addition to any bee garden, with tall spikes of purple flowers that bees can’t resist. This native plant thrives in wet areas, making it perfect for rain gardens or near ponds. You’ll love watching the bees buzz around these beautiful blooms!
Prairie Clover (Dalea Purpurea)
Prairie Clover is a delightful addition to any bee garden. Its stunning purple blooms attract bees and other pollinators throughout the summer. Plus, it’s low-maintenance, making it a perfect choice for gardeners who want to create a buzzing haven without too much fuss.
Wild Lupine (Lupinus Perennis)
Wild Lupine is a stunning addition to any bee garden. Its beautiful blue and purple flowers attract various pollinators, making it a favorite among bees. Plus, it’s native to North America, so it thrives in local soils.
Anise Hyssop (Agastache Foeniculum)
Anise hyssop is a stunning plant that bees absolutely love. With its tall spikes of purple flowers, it attracts a swarm of pollinators to your garden. Plus, its fragrant leaves can add a special touch to your herbal teas!
Penstemon (Penstemon Digitalis)
Penstemon, or the foxglove beardtongue, is a fantastic choice for your bee garden. Its white, tubular flowers attract all kinds of pollinators, making your garden buzz with life. Plus, these hardy plants are easy to grow and thrive in various conditions.
Blazing Star (Liatris Spicata)
The Blazing Star, or Liatris spicata, is a stunning addition to any bee garden. Its tall, purple spikes attract bees and other pollinators, making it a favorite for gardeners who want to create a lively atmosphere. With its easy care requirements, this native plant is perfect for both novice and experienced green thumbs.
Wild Strawberry (Fragaria Virginiana)
Wild strawberries are a delightful addition to any bee garden. Their bright white flowers not only attract bees but also produce sweet, juicy fruits. Plus, they’re easy to grow and can spread, making them a fun choice for gardeners.
Coreopsis (Coreopsis Lanceolata)
Coreopsis, or lanceleaf coreopsis, is a fantastic choice for your bee garden. With its bright yellow flowers, it attracts not just bees but also butterflies. Plus, it’s easy to grow and thrives in various soil types, making it a favorite for gardeners.
Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum Muticum)
Mountain mint is a fantastic addition to any bee garden. Its fragrant leaves and tiny flowers attract various pollinators, making it a buzzing hotspot for bees. Plus, it’s easy to grow and thrives in many soil types!
Spiderwort (Tradescantia Ohiensis)
Spiderwort is a lovely addition to any bee garden with its striking blue flowers. These blooms not only attract bees but also provide a splash of color in your landscape. Plus, they are hardy and low-maintenance, making them perfect for new gardeners.
