Honey Bees and the Nectar-Filled Flowers They Adore in the Southwest
We all know that honey bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem, don't we? They’re the busy little pollinators buzzing around in the Southwest, helping a variety of flowers flourish and keeping the balance of nature intact.
In this unique region, where dry, arid climates create challenges for both plants and pollinators, honey bees rely on certain nectar-rich flowers for sustenance.
I’m going to share some of the top flowers in the Southwest that honey bees simply can’t resist. By planting these flowers in your garden, you’ll not only enjoy their beauty but also provide essential support to local bee populations.
Top Flowers for Honey Bees in the Southwest
Penstemons (Beardtongues)
These perennials come in a stunning range of colors, from red and pink to purple and white, and they thrive in the arid Southwest climate. Honey bees love their tubular flowers, which make it easy to access the nectar inside. Penstemons are also a magnet for hummingbirds, creating a lively, pollinator-friendly garden.
Salvias (Sages)
Salvias are a versatile, water-conscious option for Southwest gardens, offering colors that range from deep blues and purples to vibrant reds and oranges. Honey bees are particularly drawn to the abundant nectar in their flowers, making them a must-have for bee-friendly landscapes.
Agastache (Hyssop or Hummingbird Mint)
With their tall spikes of small, tubular flowers, Agastache is a nectar powerhouse. Honey bees can’t resist these blooms, which also attract hummingbirds and butterflies. Plant them in your garden to create a feast for pollinators throughout the season.
Desert Willow
This small or large, drought-tolerant tree produces trumpet-shaped flowers that honey bees find irresistible. Not only does it provide a much-needed nectar source, but its branches also create a habitat for birds, adding more wildlife diversity to your garden.
Black-Eyed Susans (Gloriosa Daisies)
Bright yellow Black-Eyed Susans bloom from early summer to fall, providing bees with a reliable source of nectar. Their long-lasting flowers make them a favorite among honey bees during the hot, dry months of the Southwest.
Yarrow
Yarrow is a hardy perennial that thrives in a variety of soil types and is known for its drought tolerance. Honey bees are drawn to its clusters of tiny flowers, which come in white, yellow, and pink. Yarrow’s long bloom season makes it a consistent source of nectar for bees.
Globe Mallow
This drought-tolerant perennial brings a burst of vibrant orange, red, or pink cup-shaped flowers to Southwest gardens. Honey bees love Globe Mallow’s sweet nectar offerings, making it an excellent addition for pollinator-friendly landscapes.
Blanket Flower
The cheerful, daisy-like Blanket Flower blooms in warm colors like red, orange, and yellow, attracting honey bees throughout the hot summer months. Its ability to tolerate heat and drought makes it perfect for Southwest gardens.
Goldenrod
Goldenrod produces tall, bright yellow flower spikes in late summer and fall, offering honey bees a crucial nectar source as other flowers begin to fade. This resilient plant thrives in various soil conditions and handles drought well, making it an excellent choice for extended bee foraging.
By adding these Southwest flowers to your garden, you’ll create a colorful, thriving landscape that supports honey bees and other pollinators. Whether you're looking to attract more wildlife or just want to help your local bee population, these plants are perfect for both beauty and sustainability.
Let’s work together to create gardens that not only look amazing but also support our buzzing little friends!
Betsy and Pete
Las Vegas, Nevada
About Us: The Authors
We're Betsy and Pete, passionate Las Vegas beekeepers trained by a master in the field. With hundreds of successful bee and bee swarm removals under our belts, we're not just experts; we're enthusiasts committed to the well-being of these incredible pollinators.
We manage dozens of beehives, both natural and honey-bearing at our Joshua Tree Preserve.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Education is an ongoing journey, especially in a dynamic field such as beekeeping. That's why we continually update our knowledge base, collaborate with other experts, and stay up to date with the latest advancements in bee control methods and beekeeping practices.
We also provide top-tier beekeeping supplies, offering everything a beekeeper needs, from beginners to experts.