Gardenias, with their glossy green leaves and famously fragrant, creamy-white blossoms, are a cherished addition to many gardens. Their intense, sweet perfume fills the air, making them a popular choice for those seeking an aromatic landscape. As gardeners admire their beauty, a common question arises regarding their role in attracting pollinators, especially bees, to the garden.
Gardenias and Bee Attraction
Gardenias are not primary attractors for bees. While bees may occasionally visit gardenia flowers for nectar if other preferred sources are scarce, the plant’s floral characteristics are not ideal for most bee species. The deep, tubular shape of the gardenia’s corolla makes nectar difficult for many bees to access. Bees favor flowers with open structures that allow easy access to pollen and nectar.
The fragrance of gardenias, potent at night, also limits their appeal to diurnal bees. Many bee species are attracted to milder scents, and the heavy fragrance of gardenias can deter some. Bees are primarily drawn to flowers in specific color ranges, such as blue, purple, yellow, or white, as they perceive ultraviolet light, which often reveals nectar guides invisible to humans. While gardenias are white, their deep corolla and evening scent make them less efficient for bee pollination. The accessibility of pollen, a vital protein source for bees, also plays a role in their floral choices.
What Gardenias Attract
While not a strong magnet for bees, gardenias attract other pollinators, particularly those active during the evening or night. Their strong, sweet fragrance, which intensifies at night, is especially appealing to nocturnal visitors. Hawk moths, also known as sphinx moths, are primary pollinators of gardenias. These moths possess long proboscises, well-suited for reaching nectar deep within the tubular flowers.
The bright white color of gardenia blossoms helps these nocturnal pollinators locate the flowers in low light conditions. Hawk moth larvae have been observed feeding on gardenia leaves, further indicating a relationship between these plants and moths. Other general garden insects may also visit gardenias, but hawk moths are primarily drawn to them.
Plants That Attract Bees
For gardeners aiming to support bee populations, selecting plants with specific characteristics can attract more bees. Bees are drawn to open flower shapes, such as those found in the daisy family, which provide easy access to nectar and pollen. They show a strong preference for flowers in shades of blue, purple, yellow, and white, as these colors are visible to them.
Providing a continuous supply of food throughout the growing season is important, achieved by planting diverse species that bloom at different times. Common garden plants known for attracting various bee species include bee balm (Monarda spp.), lavender (Lavandula spp.), salvia (Salvia spp.), asters, and coneflowers (Echinacea). Herbs like basil, cilantro, dill, and rosemary are also excellent choices for attracting bees.