Mint, belonging to the genus Mentha, is a highly aromatic herb part of the extensive Lamiaceae family, which is well-known for attracting pollinators. The direct answer to whether bees like mint flowers is yes. These plants are a significant draw for a wide range of bee species, including honeybees, bumblebees, and various solitary bees. Allowing the plant to flower, rather than constantly pruning it, transforms the herb into a valuable resource for local insect populations.
Why Mint Flowers Are Appealing to Bees
Mint flowers are a valuable forage source for bees due to the quality and quantity of nutritional resources they offer. The small, often pinkish-lilac or white blossoms are densely clustered in whorls around the stem. This structure provides a large number of individual flowers in a compact space, allowing a foraging bee to collect a substantial load of nectar and pollen without expending much energy flying between flowers. The flowers produce both nectar (a carbohydrate source for energy) and pollen (supplying protein and fats necessary for colony development). Mint often blooms later in the season, typically from mid-summer into early fall, making it a reliable food source when other plants have finished flowering. This late-season availability is particularly beneficial for preparing honeybee colonies for winter or supporting late-flying bumblebees.
Differences in Attraction Among Mint Varieties
While bees generally favor mint, the level of attraction varies significantly between specific varieties within the genus Mentha.
Spearmint and Peppermint
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is widely recognized as a major attractant and is often covered in pollinators when in full bloom. Its flowers provide an abundance of easily accessible nectar. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is a hybrid that sometimes leads to the misconception that it repels bees. Peppermint flowers are attractive to bees, and large-scale commercial mint fields have documented substantial honey production. The confusion arises because the high concentration of essential oils, such as menthol, in the leaves is sometimes used in concentrated form as a repellent against pests.
Other Attractive Varieties
The closely related plant Catnip (Nepeta cataria), a member of the mint family, is renowned for its powerful attractiveness to bees. For gardeners seeking maximum bee visitation, varieties like Mountain Mint (Pycnanthemum spp.), which is rated highly for its pollinator appeal, alongside Spearmint, are reliable choices. The variation in essential oil profile and flowering time determines which variety a bee will prefer.
Integrating Mint into a Bee-Friendly Garden
To successfully incorporate mint for the benefit of pollinators, gardeners must manage its aggressive nature to prevent it from overtaking other plants. Mint spreads vigorously through underground runners. Therefore, planting it in a container sunk into the ground or keeping it in above-ground pots is recommended for control. This method allows the plant to flower freely without becoming invasive. Mint generally thrives in full sun, though it tolerates partial shade, and prefers moist, well-draining soil. Allowing the plant to reach its full flowering potential, particularly in the later summer months, provides a food source when other blooms are scarce. By controlling the spread and letting the flowers mature, mint becomes a practical and effective addition to a bee-friendly garden.