Discover the plants that might be turning your yard into a bug haven. These 32 common plants, while beautiful, are known to attract insects.
Learn how each plant invites critters, along with unique visual prompts for each, all in a playful tone.
1. Roses
When you think of romance, you might picture roses. These classic beauties, however, attract more than just lovebirds. Aphids and beetles often find roses irresistible, feasting on their leaves and petals.
Their sweet scent and vibrant colors beckon bugs from near and far.
If your roses are buzzing with unwanted guests, consider introducing ladybugs as a natural solution. These charming insects can help keep rose-eating bugs in check, allowing you to enjoy your blooms without the bothersome critters.
2. Marigolds
Brimming with cheer, these sunny blooms are as inviting to insects as they are to humans. Marigolds, with their vivid yellows and oranges, are frequented by aphids and thrips.
The scent may deter some pests, yet others find them irresistible.
Despite the bug traffic, marigolds can serve as a natural pest repellent for other plants. Companion planting with marigolds might just reduce your garden’s pest problem by luring bugs away.
3. Lavender
Close your eyes and imagine the calming aroma of lavender. This fragrant plant is a magnet for bees and butterflies.
While its scent can be soothing for humans, it draws in these pollinators in droves.
If you wish to support local bee populations, planting lavender is a beneficial choice. Just be prepared for the lively buzz of winged visitors enjoying your aromatic oasis.
4. Daisies
Picture a field of cheerful daisies waving in the wind. Bees find their open-faced blooms hard to resist.
Their simple shape and bright centers call to these busy pollinators.
While they attract beneficial insects, daisies can also invite unwanted ones, like aphids. Keeping an eye on your flowers will help maintain a balanced ecosystem in your garden.
5. Sunflowers
Sunlight and smiles come to mind with towering sunflowers. Their golden heads serve as a beacon to bees and beetles alike.
While they attract helpful pollinators, some beetles can be less than friendly to your plants.
Creating a sunflower patch might mean more garden guests, but the sight of these giants is worth the buzz. Plus, they provide seeds for both you and the birds to enjoy.
6. Zinnias
Imagine a splash of color with vibrant zinnias. These flowers are a favorite snack spot for butterflies and bees.
Their bold, bright hues are like a neon sign for pollinators.
While they bring beauty and beneficial insects to your garden, zinnias also attract the occasional pest. Keep your eyes open, and enjoy the fluttering wings that make zinnia patches so lively.
7. Geraniums
A sunny patio adorned with geraniums can seem idyllic. However, these hardy plants attract bees, butterflies, and even some pesky flies.
Their bright blooms and distinct scent are a siren call to insects.
While they add charm and color, keeping geraniums in check might require some attention to ward off unwanted insect guests. Enjoy the dance of nature these flowers bring to your living space.
8. Mint
Refreshment is often associated with mint, but did you know it also attracts bugs? Bees and certain flies love the robust aroma of mint leaves.
This herb’s fragrance is both a blessing and a curse in the bug world.
If you notice an influx of insects, try planting mint in pots. This keeps them at bay while still reaping the calming benefits of this versatile herb.
9. Chrysanthemums
Vibrant chrysanthemums can light up any garden with their vivid hues. Unfortunately, they also draw in bees and aphids.
Their bold colors and alluring scent make them a popular stop for insects.
To keep your chrysanthemums healthy, consider regular maintenance. This might include introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs, which help manage the less welcome visitors.
10. Basil
This favorite culinary herb is a magnet for both taste buds and bugs. Basil attracts bees and some types of flies with its aromatic leaves.
While a boon for pollinators, the presence of flies can be less appealing.
To mitigate this, consider planting basil near other herbs that might benefit from increased pollination. Enjoy the fragrant breeze and the culinary delights basil offers.
11. Nasturtiums
Spicy-sweet, nasturtiums are more than just a pretty face. These colorful blossoms are beloved by bees and aphids.
Their peppery scent is an open invitation to certain garden bugs.
While they can attract unwanted guests, nasturtiums also serve as a trap crop. By luring pests away from other plants, they play a valuable role in pest management.
12. Petunias
Hanging baskets filled with petunias can seem like candy shops for insects. Bees and moths are especially drawn to these brightly colored flowers.
The sweet nectar is an irresistible treat.
Regularly deadheading your petunias not only keeps them blooming longer but also helps manage the insect population. Enjoy the cascade of color and the buzz of life they bring.
13. Alyssum
Think of alyssum as the gentle ground cover that bees and butterflies adore. These tiny blooms pack a powerful punch when it comes to attracting pollinators.
Their sweet fragrance draws in beneficial insects.
Planting alyssum among your vegetables can enhance pollination and potentially increase yields. Let these delicate flowers be the backdrop to your garden’s pollinator parade.
14. Calendula
Calendula, often known as pot marigold, shines with golden blooms. Bees and ladybugs find calendula particularly attractive.
Their bright color acts as a beacon for these helpful insects.
Growing calendula can support your garden’s ecological balance. It’s not just a pretty face; its presence encourages a healthy insect community, reducing pest problems naturally.
15. Fennel
Picture the tall, feathery presence of fennel. This herb attracts bees and butterflies, thanks to its aromatic leaves and yellow flowers.
Its towering height provides a striking focal point in any garden.
Fennel aids in attracting beneficial insects, which can help control pests naturally. Enjoy the dual purpose of this plant—culinary and ecological.
16. Lantana
Lantana bursts into life with vibrant hues and clusters of blossoms. These flowers are a hotspot for bees and butterflies.
Their multi-colored clusters are a visual feast.
Though beautiful, lantana can become invasive in some areas. Make sure to manage its growth while you enjoy the parade of pollinators it attracts.
17. Coneflowers
Imagine the eye-catching blooms of coneflowers. Their daisy-like appearance and spiky centers lure in bees and butterflies.
These perennials add a touch of elegance to any garden.
Coneflowers not only attract beneficial insects but also provide seeds for birds in the fall. Let their beauty and functionality enhance your garden space.
18. Thyme
Tiny but mighty, thyme is a favorite among bees and certain flies. Its small purple flowers are a hidden gem in herb gardens.
The aromatic leaves offer more than culinary benefits.
Planting thyme can support pollinator health and create a buzzing ecosystem. Let the scent of thyme add flavor and vitality to your garden.
19. Salvia
Picture the stately spikes of salvia swaying in the breeze. This plant is a beacon for bees and even hummingbirds.
Its tubular flowers provide easy access to nectar.
Salvia’s vibrant colors and forms can enhance garden aesthetics, while supporting local pollinators. Enjoy the rhythmic dance of visitors that salvia invites.
20. Peonies
Envision lush peony bushes blooming in spring. The large, fragrant flowers attract ants and bees alike.
As the buds open, ants are drawn to the sweet nectar.
Though ants can seem like a nuisance, they often don’t harm peonies. Their presence is a small price to pay for the vibrant display these flowers provide.
21. Hostas
Hostas, with their lush green leaves, are a favorite in shady gardens. Slugs and snails, however, find them irresistible.
These pests can quickly cause damage to leaves.
Consider using barriers or natural slug repellents to protect your hostas. Despite the threat of munching mollusks, hostas remain a popular choice for creating lush landscapes.
22. Yarrow
Yarrow’s delicate clusters of flowers wave in the breeze. These blooms are a magnet for bees and butterflies.
Their fine, feathery leaves add texture to garden compositions.
Yarrow’s ability to attract beneficial insects makes it a valuable addition to any garden. Its presence can enhance biodiversity and support pollinator health.
23. Hollyhocks
Envision tall hollyhock stalks reaching for the sky. These colorful blooms attract bees and beetles in droves.
Their towering height adds drama to garden designs.
While they are a delight to pollinators, hollyhocks may require staking due to their height. Enjoy the vertical spectacle they create, with the added bonus of lively insect visitors.
24. Cilantro
Cilantro, with its feathery green leaves, is more than just a culinary favorite. It attracts bees and small flies.
The delicate flowers are a hidden treasure for insects.
Including cilantro in your garden can enhance pollinator activity, benefiting nearby plants. Enjoy the fresh flavor and vibrant life that cilantro brings to your space.
25. Poppies
Picture a field of bright red poppies swaying gently. Their bold color and open blooms attract bees and butterflies.
These iconic flowers add a pop of color to landscapes.
While poppies draw in beneficial insects, they also require well-drained soil to thrive. Their fleeting beauty and the buzz of visitors make them a cherished garden addition.
26. Snapdragons
Snapdragons stand tall with their whimsical blooms. These flowers entice bees and even hummingbirds with their unique shape.
Their resemblance to dragon heads is just part of their charm.
Snapdragons add a playful touch to gardens and support pollinator health. Enjoy the buzz of activity they bring with their lively colors and forms.
27. Echinacea
Imagine a garden alive with the pink blooms of echinacea. Bees and butterflies are drawn to these hardy flowers.
Their distinctive shape and vibrant hue are irresistible.
Echinacea not only attracts beneficial insects but also supports immune health when used in herbal remedies. Let this resilient plant add both beauty and utility to your garden.
28. Dill
Dill, known for its feathery leaves, is a favorite among bees and ladybugs. The yellow flowers provide a haven for these beneficial insects.
This herb’s aromatic qualities extend beyond the kitchen.
Growing dill can enhance pollination and pest control in your garden. Enjoy the dual benefits of flavor and ecological support dill brings to your space.
29. Lavatera
Lavatera’s pink blooms create a sea of color loved by bees and butterflies. These flowers add a touch of romance to any landscape.
Their prolific blooms ensure a steady stream of visitors.
While lavatera draws in beneficial insects, it thrives in well-drained soil and sunny spots. Relish in its beauty and the lively buzz it invites to your garden.
30. Cosmos
Imagine a meadow dotted with delicate cosmos flowers. These pink and white blooms are a beacon for bees and butterflies.
Their airy presence adds grace to gardens.
Cosmos are easy to grow and support pollinator health. They offer a long blooming season, ensuring a vibrant and lively garden atmosphere.
31. Verbena
Verbena’s purple clusters bring elegance and a host of insects. Bees and butterflies flock to this plant.
Its cascading form is a garden designer’s delight.
Verbena is drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a versatile choice for enhancing pollinator activity in your garden. Enjoy the beauty and buzz it provides.
32. Hyssop
Hyssop’s purple spikes sway with the rhythm of nature. Bees and butterflies find its fragrance irresistible.
This perennial herb adds structure and scent to garden compositions.
Hyssop’s presence can aid in attracting beneficial insects, contributing to a balanced ecosystem. Let its aroma and allure enhance your garden’s vitality.