Pollinator plants chart
Twelve native wildflowers that feed bees, butterflies and hummingbirds across much of the United States, from early spring to fall. Pick a few from each season so something is always in bloom.
Spring Summer Late summer Fall
| Plant | Blooms | Sun | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden alexanders Zizia aurea | Spring | Sun to part shade | Small bees; host for black swallowtail caterpillars |
| Wild lupine Lupinus perennis | Spring | Full sun, sandy soil | Bumblebees; host for several butterflies |
| Beardtongue Penstemon spp. | Spring | Full sun | Bumblebees and hummingbirds |
| Lanceleaf coreopsis Coreopsis lanceolata | Summer | Full sun | Bees and butterflies |
| Purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea | Summer | Sun to part shade | Bees and butterflies; finches eat the seed |
| Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta | Summer | Full sun | Bees, butterflies and beetles |
| Wild bergamot (bee balm) Monarda fistulosa | Summer | Sun to part shade | Bumblebees, butterflies and hummingbirds |
| Mountain mint Pycnanthemum spp. | Summer | Sun to part shade | Huge variety of bees and wasps |
| Milkweed Asclepias spp. | Summer | Full sun | Monarch caterpillars; many bees and butterflies |
| Blazing star Liatris spp. | Late summer | Full sun | Butterflies, including migrating monarchs |
| Goldenrod Solidago spp. | Fall | Full sun | Late bees and butterflies |
| Aster Symphyotrichum spp. | Fall | Sun to part shade | Bees and migrating monarchs |
Not every species is native everywhere. Check with your state's native plant society or extension service for species native to your region, and choose plants that suit your soil. Bloom times vary by region and weather. Some plants, including milkweed, can be toxic if eaten by people or pets.
Planting tips
Plant three or more of each so pollinators can find them.
At least three plants for spring, summer and fall.
Caterpillars need leaves to eat, not just nectar.
Skip insecticides, even "natural" ones, on flowers.
Work out seed and plugs with the seed calculator, or read choose native plants and plan for blooms all season.