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Vachellia spp. & Senegalia spp.
New World acacias—now commonly grouped in the genera Vachellia and Senegalia—are sun-loving trees and large shrubs known for their fluffy, pollen-rich blooms and tough, drought-tolerant nature once established.
Agave (genus)
Agaves are bold, sculptural succulents that store water in thick leaves and thrive in bright, dry spots. Their flowers can be a big seasonal draw for pollinators when plants are mature and in bloom.
Agrimonia spp.
Agrimony is a group of easygoing wildflowers in the genus Agrimonia, known for their tall, slender spikes of small yellow blooms and their ability to fit into natural-looking gardens.
Alnus spp.
Alders are fast-growing trees in the genus Alnus that are especially useful in damp spots and along edges where you want quick cover and early-season pollen for insects.
Agastache (native species)
Anise hyssops are native Agastache wildflowers that bring long-lasting, nectar-rich blooms to sunny gardens and containers, supporting a wide mix of pollinators with minimal fuss.
Malus spp.
Apples and crabapples are flowering trees in the genus Malus that can add a big burst of spring blossoms for pollinators, followed by small fruits that many birds and other wildlife may use.
Fraxinus spp.
Ash trees (genus Fraxinus) are familiar shade trees with airy canopies and clusters of winged seeds. While they’re not known for showy flowers, they can still play a role in a pollinator-friendly yard by offering spring pollen and a tree canopy that supports a healthier garden below.
Symphyotrichum spp.
Asters are late-season wildflowers that bring a burst of daisy-like blooms when many gardens are winding down, making them a reliable choice for pollinator-friendly planting.
Rhododendron
Native azaleas and rhododendrons are flowering shrubs in the genus Rhododendron that can add spring color and support pollinators when planted in the right spot with the right soil.
Baccharis spp.
Baccharis is a genus of tough, wildlife-friendly shrubs often used to add structure and long-season nectar to gardens and restoration plantings. If you have a sunny spot and want a low-fuss shrub that can support pollinators, Baccharis is worth a look.
Tilia
Basswoods and lindens (genus Tilia) are shade-giving trees known for their sweet-smelling summer flowers that can be a busy stop for many pollinators.
Penstemon (Mexico spp.)
Beardtongues are showy, tube-flowered wildflowers in the genus Penstemon (Mexico species) that can add bright color and pollinator activity to sunny gardens and containers.
Fagus spp.
Beeches are long-lived shade trees in the genus Fagus, valued for smooth gray bark, dense canopies, and wildlife-friendly nuts. They’re a strong choice for parks and larger yards where you can give them room and avoid disturbing their roots.
Monarda spp.
Prairie bergamots (Monarda species) are fragrant, long-blooming wildflowers that bring steady pollinator activity to sunny gardens and naturalized patches.
Betula (genus)
Birches are graceful trees in the genus Betula, known for their often light-colored bark and early-season pollen and catkins that support springtime insects.
Nyssa spp.
Black tupelo is a long-lived tree in the genus Nyssa, valued for its nectar-rich spring flowers and its ability to anchor a pollinator-friendly yard with shade and seasonal interest.
Rubus (genus)
Blackberries and raspberries (genus Rubus) are flowering bramble shrubs that can feed pollinators in bloom and people later with tasty berries—great for yards, school gardens, and even large containers with support.
Physaria (annual types; some species)
Bladderpods are sunny-site wildflowers in the genus Physaria (some species) with bright yellow blooms that can be a simple, low-fuss way to add pollinator-friendly flowers to a garden bed or even a pot.
Physaria spp. (and allies)
Bladderpods (and close relatives in the genus Physaria and allies) are tough, sunny-site wildflowers known for small yellow blooms and distinctive inflated seed pods. They’re a good choice for low-water gardens and pollinator-friendly plantings where soil drains well.
Gaillardia spp.
Blanketflowers (Gaillardia) are bright, long-blooming wildflowers that can bring steady color and pollinator visits to sunny gardens, schoolyards, and even containers.
Liatris (genus)
Blazing stars (Liatris) are upright, purple-pink wildflowers that bloom in showy spikes and are well-loved by many pollinators. They’re a strong choice for sunny gardens, borders, and meadow-style plantings.
Sanguinaria canadensis
Bloodroot is a spring-blooming woodland wildflower with bright white flowers and a distinctive red-orange sap. It’s a great choice for shady gardens where you want early-season blooms for pollinators.
Mertensia spp.
Native bluebells (genus Mertensia) are spring-blooming woodland wildflowers with nodding, bell-shaped flowers that bring early color and nectar to shady gardens.
Vaccinium (genus)
Blueberries and huckleberries (genus Vaccinium) are berry-producing shrubs with spring flowers that can support pollinators and later feed people and wildlife—great for gardens, schoolyards, and even large containers.
Eupatorium spp. (and close relatives)
Bonesets and thoroughworts are tough, nectar-rich wildflowers in the Eupatorium genus and close relatives, valued for their late-season blooms and easy-care nature in gardens that welcome pollinators.
Boraginaceae (native genera)
Native plants in the borage family (Boraginaceae) include tough, bee-friendly wildflowers that can fit into gardens, schoolyards, and even large containers. They’re a simple way to add more nectar and pollen through the growing season while keeping your planting low-fuss.
Multiple genera (region-dependent)
Bunchgrasses are clump-forming native grasses that act like living structure in a garden—holding soil, creating shelter, and supporting a healthier pollinator habitat even when they aren’t showy bloomers.
Ranunculus spp.
Wild buttercups (genus Ranunculus) are cheerful, yellow-blooming wildflowers that can add quick color to meadows, edges, and naturalized garden areas. Many species are perennial and spread readily, so they’re best used where a lively, “let it be a little wild” look is welcome.
Asclepias (upland species)
Butterfly weeds are upland milkweeds in the genus Asclepias—tough, sunny wildflowers that feed pollinators with nectar and support monarch caterpillars with their leaves.
Cephalanthus spp.
Buttonbush is a wetland shrub known for its round, pincushion-like flower clusters that draw in many pollinators. It’s a great choice for rain gardens, pond edges, and any spot that stays consistently moist.
Ceanothus spp.
California lilac (Ceanothus) is a flowering shrub known for clouds of blue blooms that can be a big draw for pollinators when it’s planted in the right spot.
Eschscholzia (genus)
California poppies are cheerful, easygoing wildflowers in the genus Eschscholzia that bring bright color and steady nectar to sunny spots with well-drained soil.
Camassia spp.
Camas (Camassia spp.) is a spring-blooming bulb with starry blue-to-purple flowers that can light up sunny meadows and garden beds while offering early-season nectar and pollen for visiting insects.
Lobelia (genus)
Lobelias are bright, nectar-rich wildflowers best known for vivid spikes of red, blue, or purple blooms that can light up garden edges and containers while supporting visiting pollinators.
Castilleja spp.
Castillejas (often called Indian paintbrush) are showy wildflowers known for their bright, paint-dabbed flower spikes that can add vivid color to naturalized gardens and pollinator patches.
Typha spp.
Cattails are tall wetland plants (genus Typha) that create shelter, nesting material, and calm-water edges where many small creatures can live. They’re best used to naturalize ponds, rain gardens, and soggy corners—where their spreading habit is a feature, not a problem.
Prunus spp.
Native cherries and plums (genus Prunus) are flowering trees that bring early-season blossoms and help support a wide range of pollinators in yards, school grounds, and parks.
Clarkia spp.
Clarkias are cheerful, easy-to-grow wildflowers in the genus Clarkia, known for silky, colorful blooms that can brighten beds, borders, and containers while offering nectar and pollen for visiting insects.
Clematis (native species)
Native clematis vines are climbing or scrambling plants that can add vertical blooms and wildlife value to fences, trellises, and naturalized edges—especially when you choose species native to your region.
Trifolium spp.
Clovers are small, easygoing plants in the genus Trifolium that can add nectar and pollen to gardens, lawns, and pots while helping cover bare soil.
Aquilegia spp.
Columbines are graceful, spring-to-early-summer wildflowers with nodding, nectar-rich blooms that can bring bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds into gardens and balcony pots.
Multiple genera (region-dependent)
Tall, upright “candle” cacti from Mexico and the U.S. Southwest that can offer nectar and pollen when in bloom—especially valuable in hot, dry gardens where few plants flower.
Echinacea (genus)
Coneflowers (Echinacea) are tough, long-blooming wildflowers that bring steady color and reliable nectar and pollen to gardens, schoolyards, and even large containers.
Coreopsis spp.
Coreopsis (often called tickseed) is a cheerful, long-blooming group of wildflowers that can brighten gardens and containers while offering easy-to-find nectar and pollen for many pollinators.
Larrea spp.
Creosote bush (genus Larrea) is a tough, sun-loving shrub known for its small yellow flowers and resin-scented leaves. It’s best for dry, open spaces where you want a low-water plant that can still offer nectar and pollen when in bloom.
Ribes spp.
Currants and gooseberries are Ribes shrubs that offer early-season flowers for pollinators and later berries for people and wildlife. They’re a great choice for edible landscapes, mixed borders, and small yards where you want a plant that does more than one job.
Baccharis spp.
Desert broom is a common name used for several Baccharis species. These tough, sun-loving native shrubs can help fill in dry, open spaces with lots of small flowers that many insects can use.
Malacothrix (and allies)
“Desert dandelion” is a common nickname for several sunny, yellow wildflowers in and around the genus Malacothrix. These easygoing annuals can add quick color and simple pollinator support in bright, open spots.
Hyptis spp.
Desert lavender is a regional common name often used for plants in the genus Hyptis. These aromatic shrubs can add long-lasting color and steady nectar to sunny gardens when given good drainage and room to breathe.
Lupinus (arid-adapted species)
Desert lupines are tough, bloom-rich wildflowers in the genus Lupinus that can bring early-season color and pollinator visits to sunny, well-drained gardens—especially where water is limited.
Sphaeralcea spp.
Desert mallows (globe mallows) are tough, sun-loving plants in the genus Sphaeralcea that bring warm-colored blooms and easy pollinator value to dry, low-fuss gardens and containers.
Apocynum (genus)
Dogbanes are tough, native-leaning wildflowers in the genus Apocynum that offer small, nectar-rich blooms and a strong, upright presence in sunny, open spaces.
Cornus spp. (shrub forms)
Shrubby dogwoods are tough, wildlife-friendly shrubs in the genus Cornus that offer spring flowers, colorful stems, and berries on many types—great for adding structure and seasonal interest while supporting pollinators.
Sambucus spp.
Elderberries (genus Sambucus) are flowering shrubs that offer big clusters of blooms for pollinators and later berries for wildlife. They’re a great choice for naturalized edges, rain-garden style spots, and mixed shrub borders where you want a plant that does a lot without being fussy.
Ulmus spp.
Elms are classic shade trees (genus Ulmus) with arching branches and small spring flowers that can support early-season insects. They’re best for larger yards, school grounds, and streetscapes where a long-lived canopy tree can make a big difference.
Erythrina (genus)
Erythrinas (coral trees) are showy flowering trees in the genus Erythrina, known for bold, nectar-rich blooms that can be a seasonal food stop for pollinators in warm gardens.
Oenothera spp.
Evening primroses are easygoing wildflowers in the genus Oenothera, known for bright, open blooms that often show up in the evening and can keep a garden lively when other flowers slow down.
Nicotiana (native species)
Evening-scented tobaccos are native Nicotiana species grown for their tubular flowers and sweet fragrance that becomes strongest toward evening—an easy way to add pollinator-friendly blooms to gardens and containers.
Helopsis spp.
False sunflowers (Helopsis) are cheerful, daisy-like wildflowers that bloom for a long stretch and offer easy, reliable color for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Chamerion spp.
Fireweed is a tough, fast-growing wildflower in the genus Chamerion that brings bright pink blooms and lots of pollinator activity to sunny, open spaces.
Erigeron spp.
Fleabanes (genus Erigeron) are easygoing wildflowers with daisy-like blooms that can brighten gardens, schoolyards, and balcony pots while offering steady nectar and pollen for many small pollinators.
Oenothera (sect. Gaura)
Gaura (beeblossoms) are airy, long-blooming wildflowers with wand-like stems and small, fluttery flowers that keep pollinators visiting. They’re a great choice for sunny beds, borders, and large containers where you want movement and a light, natural look.
Gentianaceae (native genera)
Gentians are a group of native wildflowers in the gentian family (Gentianaceae), known for their vivid, often blue blooms and their value in naturalistic gardens.
Gilia (annual species)
Annual gilias are airy, nectar-rich wildflowers in the genus Gilia that can add quick color to sunny beds and pots while supporting a variety of pollinators.
Gilia (genus)
Gilias (genus Gilia) are airy, nectar-rich wildflowers that can add quick color to sunny spots and help support a variety of pollinators.
Sphaeralcea spp.
Globe mallows are sunny, drought-tough wildflowers in the genus Sphaeralcea (some species) that can bloom for a long stretch and offer easy-to-find flowers for many pollinators.
Echinops spp.
Globe thistles’ native relatives (genus Echinops) are bold, spiky-looking wildflowers with round, button-like blooms that can be a magnet for many visiting insects when in flower.
Zizia spp.
Golden alexanders (genus Zizia) are cheerful, early-season native wildflowers with flat-topped clusters of yellow blooms that help kick off the pollinator season.
Solidago spp.
Goldenrods are tough, sunny wildflowers in the genus Solidago that light up late-season gardens with golden blooms and provide reliable nectar and pollen when many other flowers are fading.
Crataegus spp.
Hawthorns are small, flowering trees (genus Crataegus) that can add spring blossoms, shelter, and seasonal berries to gardens and naturalized spaces—while offering reliable bloom for many pollinators.
Ericaceae (family; various native species)
Native heaths are small, heather-like shrubs in the heath family (Ericaceae) that can add year-round structure and nectar-rich blooms to pollinator-friendly gardens when matched to the right light and soil.
Carya spp.
Hickories are long-lived native trees (genus Carya) that support pollinators with spring flowers and provide valuable habitat as they mature.
Ilex
Hollies (Ilex spp.) are evergreen or deciduous shrubs and trees known for glossy leaves and bright berries that add year-round structure and seasonal color to gardens.
Gleditsia spp.
Honey locusts (genus Gleditsia) are airy-canopied trees that can add light shade and seasonal flowers to yards and streetscapes while fitting into pollinator-friendly planting.
Cynoglossum spp.
Houndstongues are native wildflowers in the genus Cynoglossum that offer small, nectar-rich blooms and a tough, adaptable presence in naturalized garden areas.
Agastache spp.
Hyssops (Agastache) are fragrant, long-blooming wildflowers that are easy to grow and popular with many pollinators. They’re a great choice for sunny gardens, schoolyards, and even large containers.
Amorpha spp.
Amorpha (indigo bush and its relatives) are North American native shrubs known for spiky purple blooms and strong pollinator interest. They’re a good choice for sunny gardens where you want a tough, low-fuss plant that supports bees and other beneficial insects.
Inga (genus)
Inga is a group of tropical trees (genus Inga) known for fluffy, brush-like flowers and long pods. In warm climates, it can be a shade tree that also offers nectar and pollen for a variety of insects.
Ipomopsis spp.
Ipomopsis (often called skyrocket) is a group of North American wildflowers known for airy stems and bright, tubular blooms that are easy to spot in sunny, open gardens.
Iris (native species)
Native irises bring bold, early-season color and sturdy, upright leaves to gardens while offering nectar and pollen for a range of visiting insects.
Vernonia (genus)
Ironweeds are tall, purple-blooming wildflowers in the genus Vernonia that bring late-season color and steady nectar to pollinator gardens.
Olneya tesota
Sonoran desert ironwood is a long-lived desert tree that offers shade and seasonal flowers that can support pollinators when conditions are right.
Eutrochium spp.
Joe-Pye weeds are tall, late-season native wildflowers in the genus Eutrochium that bring big, fluffy flower clusters to gardens and give pollinators a reliable place to feed when many other plants are winding down.
Arctostaphylos spp.
Kinnikinnick is a tough, low-growing evergreen groundcover in the genus Arctostaphylos (often called bearberry) that forms a tidy mat and offers small spring flowers followed by red berries.
Lantana spp.
Lantanas are sun-loving, flower-packed plants in the genus Lantana that can bloom for a long stretch and draw in a variety of pollinators. They’re a great choice for pots, borders, and other warm, bright spots where you want steady color and activity.
Delphinium (genus)
Larkspurs and delphiniums are tall, showy wildflowers known for their spurred blooms and strong pollinator appeal. They’re a great choice when you want vertical color in a garden bed or a large container.
Multiple genera (region-dependent)
Native lilies are showy, nectar- and pollen-rich wildflowers that can add bold color to gardens while supporting a variety of pollinators. Because “native lily” can mean different species depending on where you live, focus on locally native options and give them the right light, drainage, and space.
Robinia spp.
Locusts (Robinia) are tough, fast-growing trees best known for their fragrant spring flower clusters that can be a busy stop for pollinators. They’re useful where you need a hardy tree, but they can also spread and send up shoots, so choose the right spot and manage them early.
Lysimachia (native species)
Native loosestrifes (genus Lysimachia) are easygoing wildflowers that bring long-lasting blooms to gardens and naturalized areas, supporting a variety of pollinators without needing fussy care.
Lupinus (annual species)
Annual lupines are bright, pea-flower wildflowers that can add quick color and pollinator activity to sunny gardens, pots, and schoolyard plantings.
Magnolia spp.
Magnolias are flowering trees known for their big, early-season blooms that can help kick-start spring foraging for pollinators. Choose a site with steady moisture and protection from harsh wind, and let fallen leaves act as a natural mulch.
Malvaceae (native genera)
Native mallows (the Malvaceae family) are easygoing wildflowers with open, nectar-rich blooms that can help support a steady stream of pollinators through the growing season.
Arctostaphylos spp.
Manzanitas are tough, beautiful western shrubs with urn-shaped flowers that can feed early-season pollinators and evergreen leaves that keep gardens looking good year-round.
Acer (genus)
Maples are familiar shade trees that offer early-season flowers and later seeds, supporting a range of pollinators and adding strong structure to yards, school grounds, and streetscapes.
Baileya spp.
Desert marigolds are sunny, daisy-like wildflowers in the genus Baileya that bring bright color and steady nectar to warm, open garden spots.
Hibiscus (native species)
Marsh mallows are moisture-loving native hibiscus relatives that bring big, showy blooms to sunny spots and offer reliable nectar and pollen for a range of pollinators.
Prosopis spp.
Mesquites are tough, drought-adapted trees in the genus Prosopis that can add shade and seasonal flowers to dry landscapes while offering nectar and pollen for a range of pollinators.
Astragalus spp.
Milkvetches are a large group of wildflowers in the genus Astragalus, known for pea-like blooms and their value in naturalized gardens and habitat plantings.
Asclepias (wetland species)
Wetland milkweeds are nectar-rich native flowers that thrive in moist ground and help support pollinators, including butterflies, in rain gardens, pond edges, and other damp spots.
Asclepias spp.
Milkweeds from tropical Mexico (genus Asclepias) are nectar-rich wildflowers that can add bright blooms and pollinator activity to sunny gardens and containers.
Asclepias (genus)
Milkweeds are tough, nectar-rich wildflowers in the genus Asclepias that can turn a garden bed, schoolyard edge, or even a sunny pot into a pollinator stop.
Lamiaceae (native genera)
Native mints are aromatic, nectar-rich wildflowers in the mint family that can turn a small garden corner into a busy pollinator stop.
Philadelphus spp.
Mock oranges (Philadelphus) are classic flowering shrubs known for their bright white blooms and sweet, citrus-like fragrance. They’re a simple way to add a big burst of spring-to-early-summer flowers that many pollinators can use.
Mimulus spp. & Erythranthe spp.
Monkeyflowers are cheerful, nectar-rich wildflowers known for snapdragon-like blooms that can brighten garden edges, pots, and damp spots while supporting visiting pollinators.
Pycnanthemum (genus)
Mountain mints are tough, fragrant native wildflowers that bloom in summer and are famous for drawing in a busy mix of pollinators. They’re easy to grow, handle a range of garden conditions, and make a great “plant it and watch it” choice for pollinator patches.
Brassicaceae (native genera)
Native mustards are a group of quick-blooming wildflowers in the mustard family that can add early-to-mid season nectar and pollen to gardens, schoolyards, and even containers.
Lonicera (native species)
Native honeysuckles are twining or trailing vines in the genus Lonicera (native species) that offer nectar-rich blooms and cover for wildlife—great for fences, trellises, and naturalized edges.
Multiple genera (region-dependent)
Native prairie grasses are a mix of region-appropriate grasses that add structure, movement, and shelter to gardens while supporting healthier habitat for pollinators and other beneficial insects.
Nemophila (genus)
Nemophilas are small, easygoing wildflowers best known for cheerful, sky-blue blooms that can quickly brighten pots, borders, and spring beds while offering simple, accessible nectar and pollen for visiting insects.
Physocarpus spp.
Ninebark is a tough, easygoing shrub (genus Physocarpus) with spring-to-early-summer flower clusters that can help support pollinators, plus peeling bark that adds year-round interest.
Quercus spp.
Oaks are long-lived trees that can anchor a yard, school ground, or park with shade, structure, and lots of seasonal interest. Many pollinators use oak flowers in spring, and the tree’s leaves and bark support a wide web of life over time.
Fouquieria spp.
Ocotillo is a dramatic desert shrub in the genus Fouquieria, known for tall, wand-like stems and bright flower clusters that can be a valuable nectar stop when in bloom.
Stenocereus (genus)
Organ pipe & relatives are columnar cacti in the genus Stenocereus, grown for their bold, upright stems and showy blooms that can offer nectar and pollen when flowers are open.
Passiflora spp.
Passionflowers (genus Passiflora) are climbing vines known for their intricate, otherworldly blooms and their ability to add vertical color to fences, trellises, and sunny walls.
Pyrus spp.
Pears are small to medium trees in the genus Pyrus that can offer spring blossoms for pollinators and later fruit for people and wildlife—when you choose regionally appropriate types and give them sun, space, and good airflow.
Penstemon (arid-adapted species)
Desert penstemons are tough, drought-tolerant wildflowers that bring bright, tubular blooms to sunny gardens and help support visiting pollinators with reliable nectar.
Penstemon (genus)
Penstemons (beardtongues) are hardy, flower-filled wildflowers that bring bright color and steady nectar to gardens and containers, especially in sunny spots with well-drained soil.
Keckiella spp. (and close allies)
“Penstemons’ allies” is a friendly way to talk about Keckiella (and close relatives): tough, nectar-rich wildflowers that can help fill sunny garden gaps with tubular blooms that many pollinators learn to visit.
Phacelia spp.
Phacelias are easygoing wildflowers in the genus Phacelia, known for their nectar-rich blooms that can bring lots of pollinator activity to gardens, schoolyards, and even containers.
Polemoniaceae
The phlox family (Polemoniaceae) includes many garden-friendly wildflowers known for clusters of colorful, nectar-rich blooms that can help support pollinators when grown without pesticides.
Phlox spp.
Phloxes (Genus Phlox) are classic, pollinator-friendly wildflowers known for clusters of starry blooms that can brighten beds, borders, and even containers.
Pontederia spp.
Pickerelweeds are wetland and pond-edge plants in the genus Pontederia, known for upright spikes of purple-blue flowers that are popular with many pollinators.
Hylocereus/Selenicereus spp.
Pitayas (often called dragon fruit) are climbing cactus relatives grown for their dramatic night-blooming flowers and colorful fruit. In the right spot, they can be a conversation-starting plant that also offers nectar when in bloom.
Populus
Poplars, aspens, and cottonwoods (genus Populus) are fast-growing trees best known for their fluttering leaves and soft “cottony” seeds. They can support early-season pollinators with spring catkins, but they’re also big, thirsty, and often short-lived in small yards—so they’re best chosen with space and roots in mind.
Eschscholzia spp.
Bright, cup-shaped poppy flowers from the genus Eschscholzia that thrive in sunny spots and can add easy, pollinator-friendly color to gardens, pots, and schoolyards.
Dalea spp.
Prairie clovers (genus Dalea) are prairie wildflowers with tidy, clover-like leaves and bottlebrush-style blooms that are popular with many pollinators. They’re a great choice for sunny, well-drained spots where you want long-lasting summer color without fussy care.
Ratibida spp.
Prairie coneflowers (Ratibida) are tough, sunny wildflowers with drooping petals and a bold cone-shaped center that pollinators can easily find. They’re a great choice for low-fuss gardens, schoolyards, and naturalized patches where you want long-lasting summer color.
Opuntia spp.
Prickly pears are tough, sun-loving cacti (genus Opuntia) with bright blooms that can offer nectar and pollen when in flower. They’re best for warm, bright spots and gardeners who want a low-water plant with big character.
Argemone spp.
Prickly poppies (genus Argemone) are bold, spiny wildflowers with papery blooms that can add bright color and nectar to sunny, low-fuss garden spots.
Ericameria spp. / Chrysothamnus spp.
Rabbitbrush is a tough, sun-loving shrub known for its bright yellow late-season blooms that can help keep pollinators fed when many other flowers are fading.
Cercis
Redbuds are small, spring-blooming trees in the genus Cercis, loved for their early flowers and easy, neighborhood-friendly size.
Rudbeckia spp.
Rudbeckias are cheerful, daisy-like wildflowers known for bold yellow blooms and dark centers. They’re easy to grow, long-blooming, and a reliable way to add pollinator-friendly color to gardens, schoolyards, and even large containers.
Juncus spp.
Rushes are tough, grass-like wetland plants (genus Juncus) that thrive in damp soil and help create calm, sheltered habitat at the edges of ponds, rain gardens, and low spots.
Artemisia spp.
Sagebrushes are tough, aromatic shrubs in the genus Artemisia that can anchor a dry, sunny habitat and offer shelter and seasonal nectar for a range of insects.
Salvia spp.
Sages (genus Salvia) are aromatic, nectar-rich plants that can add long-lasting color and steady pollinator activity to gardens, balconies, and schoolyards.
Carnegiea gigantea
Saguaros are iconic desert cacti that grow slowly, live a long time, and offer seasonal flowers that can support pollinators when grown in the right conditions.
Gaultheria shallon
Salal is a tough, evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and spring flowers that can support pollinators and add year-round structure to gardens and containers.
Salvia spp.
Salvias are a big, colorful group of flowering plants in the genus Salvia, with especially rich diversity in Mexico. Many are easy, pollinator-friendly garden plants that bloom over a long season when given sun and well-drained soil.
Sassafras spp.
Sassafras is a distinctive North American tree known for its aromatic leaves and twigs and its mix of leaf shapes on the same plant. When it flowers, it can offer early-season nectar and pollen for a range of insects, and its berries can be useful to wildlife later on.
Carex (genus)
Sedges (genus Carex) are grass-like plants that form tidy clumps and thrive in many garden conditions, especially where soil stays a bit damp. They add texture, cover bare ground, and can support small wildlife by providing shelter and nesting material.
Amelanchier (genus)
Serviceberries (genus Amelanchier) are small trees with early-season blossoms, edible berries, and strong wildlife value—an easy way to add beauty and pollinator support to a yard, school garden, or even a large container.
Scutellaria (genus)
Skullcaps are easygoing wildflowers in the genus Scutellaria, known for their small, hooded blooms that are popular with many garden pollinators.
Symphoricarpos
Snowberries are easygoing shrubs in the genus Symphoricarpos, known for their small flowers and bright, bead-like berries that add interest long after bloom season.
Polygonatum spp.
Solomon’s seals are graceful woodland perennials in the genus Polygonatum, grown for arching stems, tidy leaves, and small dangling flowers that support early-season garden life.
Oxydendrum arboreum
Sourwood is a graceful flowering tree known for its summer clusters of white, bell-shaped blooms and rich fall color. It can be a beautiful way to add nectar-rich flowers to a yard or school garden while also providing light shade and seasonal interest.
Veronica (native species)
Native speedwells (Veronica species) are low-fuss wildflowers with small, nectar-friendly blooms that can fit into garden beds, edges, and even containers—an easy way to add more pollinator-friendly flowers to everyday spaces.
Spiraea (genus)
Native spiraeas are easygoing flowering shrubs that offer clusters of small blooms and dependable structure for pollinator-friendly gardens.
Claytonia (genus)
Spring beauties are small, early-blooming wildflowers in the genus Claytonia that bring quick spring color and an easy nectar stop for early pollinators.
Multiple genera (region-dependent)
A mix of spring-blooming desert annual wildflowers that can turn bare soil into a short-lived carpet of color after seasonal rains. Great for quick pollinator-friendly blooms in sunny, well-drained spots—especially when you choose seed mixes suited to your region.
Hypericum (genus)
St. John’s-worts (genus Hypericum) are sunny, easygoing native wildflowers that offer bright blooms and steady pollinator activity in gardens, schoolyards, and even large containers.
Rhus spp.
Sumacs are tough, wildlife-friendly shrubs in the genus Rhus, known for their bold leaves, airy flower clusters, and fuzzy red seed heads that can add color and structure to a garden edge.
Helianthus spp.
Native sunflowers are bright, tough wildflowers in the genus Helianthus that feed pollinators and add cheerful color from mid-season into fall.
Liquidambar styraciflua
Sweetgum is a tall, long-lived shade tree with star-shaped leaves and spiky seed balls. It can add structure to larger yards and parks, and its spring flowers can offer early-season pollen for insects.
Platanus (genus)
Sycamores and plane trees (genus Platanus) are big, long-lived shade trees known for their patchy, peeling bark and broad leaves. They can support pollinators in spring with clusters of small flowers and help create cooler, more comfortable habitat in parks and yards.
Desmodium spp.
Tick-trefoils are native wildflowers in the genus Desmodium that offer nectar and pollen in summer and leave behind “stick-tight” seed pods that hitchhike on clothing and fur.
Trillium spp.
Trilliums are spring-blooming woodland wildflowers in the genus Trillium, known for their three-petaled flowers and three-part symmetry. They’re best appreciated in shady, leaf-mulched gardens where they can settle in and slowly form small colonies.
Campsis (genus)
Trumpet creepers (genus Campsis) are vigorous, woody vines known for their bold, trumpet-shaped flowers that can draw in pollinators. They’re best used where you have sturdy support and room to manage their enthusiastic growth.
Salvia (tubular-flowered species)
Trumpet sages are a group of Salvia plants with tubular flowers that are especially handy for pollinator gardens. They’re easy to spot, easy to grow in the right place, and can fit into beds, borders, and even large pots.
Liriodendron tulipifera
Tulip tree is a tall, long-lived shade tree with distinctive tulip-like flowers that can support pollinators when it blooms. It’s best for larger yards, parks, and school grounds where it has room to grow.
Verbena spp.
Native verbena (genus Verbena) includes easygoing wildflowers that bloom in clusters and can add long-lasting color for pollinators in gardens, schoolyards, and even containers.
Juglans
Walnuts are large, long-lived trees in the genus Juglans, best known for their edible nuts and broad shade. In gardens and schoolyards, they can be a strong “backbone” tree—great for habitat structure—when you give them room and plan around what grows well beneath them.
Monarda spp.
Wild bergamot and other bee balms (the genus Monarda) are easygoing native wildflowers known for their shaggy, pom‑pom blooms that draw in lots of pollinators. They’re a great choice when you want long-lasting summer color and a plant that feels lively with buzzing visitors.
Eriogonum (genus)
Wild buckwheats (genus Eriogonum) are tough, long-blooming western native wildflowers that can turn dry, sunny spots into reliable pollinator stops.
Geranium (genus)
Wild geraniums (Genus Geranium) are easygoing, pollinator-friendly wildflowers that bring soft, open blooms and fresh green foliage to gardens and naturalized edges.
Asarum (genus)
Wild gingers (genus Asarum) are low, shade-loving woodland perennials grown for their heart-shaped leaves and quiet, ground-hugging coverage—an easy way to green up shady spots without fuss.
Baptisia (genus)
Wild indigos (genus Baptisia) are long-lived native wildflowers known for upright flower spikes, clover-like leaves, and a tough, low-fuss nature once established. They’re a strong choice for pollinator-friendly gardens where you want reliable blooms and a plant that can hold its own without constant care.
Calliandra spp.
Wild lilacs (genus Calliandra) are warm-climate shrubs known for fluffy “powderpuff” blooms that can add color and pollinator activity to sunny gardens and patios.
Allium (native species)
Wild onions (native Allium species) are small, bulb-forming plants with starry blooms that can add early-season nectar and pollen to gardens, lawns, and pots—especially when you let them grow undisturbed.
Rosa spp.
Wild roses are hardy shrubs in the genus Rosa that offer simple, open flowers for pollinators and bright hips that add seasonal interest. They’re a great choice for naturalized edges, hedgerows, and wildlife-friendly gardens where you want beauty with a little toughness.
Silphium
Silphium (often called rosinweed) is a group of tall, tough native wildflowers known for sunflower-like blooms and long-lasting nectar and pollen. They’re a strong choice for pollinator gardens, schoolyards, and naturalized edges where you want big plants that can handle summer heat once established.
Thymus spp.
Wild thymes are low, aromatic, nectar-rich plants in the genus Thymus. Native species are uncommon, but when you can source a locally appropriate wild thyme, it can be a tidy, pollinator-friendly choice for sunny edges, rock gardens, and containers.
Epilobium spp.
Willowherbs (genus Epilobium) are easygoing wildflowers that pop up in sunny, open spots and offer simple, nectar-rich blooms that many small pollinators can use.
Salix spp.
Willows are fast-growing trees and shrubs in the genus Salix that offer some of the earliest pollen and nectar of the year, making them a strong choice for pollinator-friendly yards, parks, and school grounds.
Stachys spp.
Woundworts (also called hedgenettles) are Stachys wildflowers that offer long-lasting blooms and easy, low-fuss habitat value in gardens and naturalized edges.
Achillea millefolium
Yarrow is a tough, easygoing wildflower that brings long-lasting blooms and steady pollinator visits to gardens, schoolyards, and even containers.
Yucca (genus)
Yucca is a group of bold, architectural plants with spiky leaves and tall flower stalks that can add structure to sunny gardens and containers. Many yuccas are tough once established and can be a low-fuss way to offer nectar to visiting pollinators when in bloom.
