Crepe Myrtles (Lagerstroemia spp.) are popular ornamental trees and shrubs, admired for their vibrant summer blooms. These deciduous plants are a common sight in many landscapes, providing color and an appealing form. Their adaptability and long flowering period contribute to their widespread use.
Crepe Myrtles and Bee Attraction
Crepe Myrtles are a significant attraction for various bee species, primarily due to their abundant pollen production. The flowers provide a rich source of pollen, essential for bee nutrition, supplying proteins and fats necessary for adult bees and their young. Research indicates Crepe Myrtle flowers produce two distinct pollen types: one digestible by bees, the other for plant reproduction.
Bees are frequently observed on Crepe Myrtle blooms, though scientific studies suggest these flowers generally do not produce nectar. If bees collect liquid, they are likely gathering pollen or consuming honeydew, a sugary substance often excreted by aphids that commonly infest Crepe Myrtles. The open structure of Crepe Myrtle flowers makes their pollen easily accessible to a wide range of bee sizes and types.
The extended blooming season of Crepe Myrtles, from late spring through early fall, positions them as a consistent food source. This prolonged availability of pollen is valuable during summer months when other floral resources might become scarce. Various bee species, including honey bees, bumble bees, carpenter bees, and numerous native small bees, commonly visit these plants. Different cultivars and flower colors can influence bee visitation, with some studies noting preferences for certain hues like pink or dark purple.
Beyond Bees Other Pollinators
Beyond their appeal to bees, Crepe Myrtles also attract other pollinators and beneficial insects. Butterflies are drawn to the colorful blooms, likely for pollen or any honeydew present on the foliage. The visual appeal of the flowers plays a significant role in attracting these visitors.
Hummingbirds are another group of pollinators frequently observed around Crepe Myrtles, particularly those with brightly colored, often purple or pink, blossoms. They may visit the flowers to access available sugars, or forage for small insects also attracted to the plants. Larger varieties of Crepe Myrtles can be particularly appealing.
The presence of Crepe Myrtles also supports populations of other beneficial insects. Ladybugs, lacewings, and various wasps are often drawn to these plants, not directly for the flowers, but due to aphids. These predatory insects help manage aphid populations, showcasing the plant’s ecological role.
Gardening with Crepe Myrtles and Pollinators
Incorporating Crepe Myrtles into a garden provides a valuable resource for local pollinator populations, especially during warmer months when their long bloom period offers a sustained food source. Gardeners can strategically place these plants to maximize benefits. If high bee activity near outdoor living spaces is a concern, plant Crepe Myrtles in less frequented garden areas.
When cultivating Crepe Myrtles, be mindful of pesticide use to protect visiting pollinators. Systemic insecticides, such as neonicotinoids, are absorbed by the plant and can be translocated into the pollen, posing a risk to bees and other beneficial insects. Avoiding these chemicals, particularly during blooming, is recommended.
Safer alternatives for pest management, such as horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps, can be used if necessary, as they have less impact on pollinators. Encouraging natural predators of common Crepe Myrtle pests, like aphids, further reduces the need for chemical interventions.
All established Crepe Myrtle cultivars attract pollinators. Selecting varieties based on bloom color or size can enhance their appeal to specific bee or hummingbird species. Crepe Myrtles are a beneficial addition to a pollinator-friendly landscape.