My favorite native pollinator plants.
Fall color! California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum): This drought-tolerant perennial produces clusters of tiny, nectar-rich flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
California Lilac (Ceanothus spp.): Ceanothus species are known for their profuse clusters of fragrant blue, white, or pink flowers that provide nectar for bees and butterflies.
Salvias (Salvia spp.): Many native salvias, such as Salvia leucophylla (Purple Sage) and Salvia mellifera (Black Sage), are excellent for attracting hummingbirds and various pollinators.
Milkweed (Asclepias spp.): Asclepias species, including California native varieties like Asclepias fascicularis (Narrowleaf Milkweed), are essential for supporting monarch butterflies.
California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum): The bright red, tubular flowers of California Fuchsia are irresistible to hummingbirds.
Coyote Mint (Monardella spp.): These low-growing, aromatic plants produce small, clustered flowers that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.): Native penstemons come in various colors and are popular with hummingbirds and bumblebees.
California Sunflower (Encelia spp.): These drought-tolerant plants produce bright yellow or orange flowers that are visited by bees and butterflies.
Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.): Manzanitas offer nectar for hummingbirds and bumblebees and provide habitat for native insects.
Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii): This fragrant sage produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers that are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Coastal Sagebrush (Artemisia californica): Aromatic and drought-tolerant, this plant is a favorite of bees and provides cover for beneficial insects.
Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium spp.): Despite its name, this perennial produces small, star-like flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Bush Sunflower (Encelia californica): These low-maintenance plants produce bright yellow flowers that are popular with bees.
Monkeyflower (Mimulus spp.): These colorful, tubular flowers are loved by hummingbirds and native bees.
California Aster (Aster chilensis): Late-blooming California Asters provide nectar for bees and butterflies in the fall.
California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica): The state flower of California attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
To create a pollinator-friendly garden, aim to provide a diverse range of flowering plants that bloom throughout the year to ensure a consistent food source for pollinators. Additionally, avoid the use of pesticides and herbicides, as these chemicals can harm beneficial insects. Native pollinator plants not only support local wildlife but also add beauty and character to your Southern California garden.
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