Planting a variety of nectar-rich plants is a great way to support honeybee populations in USDA hardiness zones 7-8. Here are 25 excellent plants that are known for producing abundant nectar:
Perennials
- Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) - Attracts bees with its vibrant flowers.
- Lavender (Lavandula spp.) - A fragrant herb that is a favorite of honeybees.
- Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) - Known for its daisy-like flowers and bee attraction.
- Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) - Late-season bloom providing essential nectar.
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) - Bright yellow flowers are excellent for pollinators.
- Catmint (Nepeta spp.) - A hardy perennial that blooms profusely.
- Monkshood (Aconitum spp.) - Attractive for its unique flowers and nectar.
- Aster (Aster spp.) - Late-season bloomers that are beneficial for bees.
- Liatris (Liatris spp.) - Also known as gayfeather or blazing star.
- Annabelle Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) - Produces sizeable flower heads.
- Sage (Salvia spp.) - Many varieties are prolific nectar producers.
- Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) - Hardy and attractive to many pollinators.
Annuals
- Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) - Tall, cheerful flowers that produce lots of nectar.
- Zinnias (Zinnia elegans) - Bright colors attract bees all summer long.
- Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) - Simple flowers that bees love.
- Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) - Edible flowers that are appealing to bees.
Shrubs
- Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) - Not just for fruit; the flowers are nectar-rich.
- Caryopteris (Caryopteris spp.) - Also known as blue mist, attracts bees with its blue flowers.
- Holly (Ilex spp.) - Produces small flowers that attract bees in spring.
- Raspberry (Rubus idaeus) - Fruit-bearing shrub with nectar-rich flowers.
Trees
- Red Maple (Acer rubrum) - One of the first trees to bloom in spring.
- Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) - Known for its fragrant, nectar-rich flowers.
- Willow (Salix spp.) - Early flowering tree important for bees in spring.
Groundcovers
- Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum) - Low-growing herb that attracts pollinators.
- Clover (Trifolium spp.) - Can be used as a ground cover and is highly attractive to bees.
These plants can provide a continuous source of nectar throughout the growing season, helping to sustain honeybee populations. Be sure to consider local soil conditions and sun exposure when choosing plants. Happy gardening!