Do drought-tolerant shrubs attract pollinators?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Drought-tolerant shrubs are important plants that provide nectar and habitat for pollinators while conserving water. These tough shrubs support bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season. By planting shrubs, you create ecological corridors that serve as both water and wildlife conservation strategies.
Butterfly Bush
- Produces conical flower spikes rich in nectar
- Attracts monarchs, swallowtails, and painted ladies
- Blooms summer through fall during migration seasons
Lavender
- Fragrant spikes draw honeybees and bumblebees
- Essential oil content supports native bee health
- Continuous blooming from late spring to early fall
Blue Mist Shrub
- Fuzzy blue flowers provide late-season nectar
- Critical fuel source for migrating monarchs
- Thrives in poor soil with minimal water
Virginia Sweetspire
- White bottlebrush flowers attract native bees
- Supports early-season pollinators emerging in spring
- Tolerates both drought and occasional flooding
These shrubs provide season-long support for various pollinator groups. Early-flowering shrubs, such as Virginia Sweetspire, are beneficial to bees that emerge in the spring. Summer-flowering shrubs, such as lavender, support honeybee colonies. Late-flowering shrubs, such as the Blue Mist Shrub, are supportive for monarch butterflies during their migration. I have observed thirty different species of pollinators visiting my drought-tolerant garden.
Using a strategic approach to planting helps to maximize the benefits to pollinators. Cluster shrubs together and use sunny places near water sources. Construct color blocks, which are easy for pollinators to find food. For example, in my lavender patch, which I have planted beside the birdbath, I constantly see greater activity. Lastly, don't forget about pesticides and the need to sustain an ecosystem with beneficial insects.
Availability of nectar will vary depending on the floral structure. Butterflies generally prefer flower types with landing pads like the clusters of flat Lantana. Bees will seek tubular flower types, such as Salvia. Hummingbirds are attracted to tubular flowers that are shaped to fit their bills. Plant a variety of flower shapes that accommodate the feeding mechanisms of all taxa.
Drought adaptations increase the value of pollinators. A plethora of native shrubs evolved, along with local pollinators, that have adapted to drought conditions. For example, manzanita, an obsidian shrub here in California, blooms in the winter, when there are few food resources available for pollinators. In my California garden, the manzanita provides food for Anna's hummingbirds during the winter rains in February. These relationships help to build resiliency into local ecosystems.
Read the full article: Top Drought Tolerant Shrubs for Every Garden
