What Flowers are Bees Attracted to?

Bees are among the world's largest group of pollinators.

Flowers rely on bees and other pollinators to spread genetic material from one generation to the next. Flowers have several characteristics to attract bees, ensuring the survival of both the flower and the bee.

Shape

Experiments show that flowers with long, flexible stems, such as the Sea Campion of West Wales, attract more bees by swaying in the breeze more easily than short-stemmed flowers. Also, flowers with large, accessible blooms ensure that bees are able to reach nectar easily, while picking up pollen in the process.

Fragrance

Flowers with stronger scents than their competitors have a better chance of attracting bees for pollination.

Native Flowers

In one experiment, bumblebees showed an innate attraction to native flowers that produced the most nectar. In this case, violet flowers produced the most nectar, followed by blue ones.

Iridescence

Iridescence occurs when a surface has the ability to change color when viewed at a different angle. Research shows that bees are attracted to a flower's iridescence as well as its color. Scientists have identified iridescence in hibiscus and tulip flowers, but suspect that it is a widespread characteristic.

Benefits and Risks

Bees can benefit the health of any garden. However, young children and individuals who are allergic to bee stings should be cautious in areas where bees may live or forage.

References

• How Iridescence Attracts Bees to Flowers for Pollination
• Why Flowers Have Pretty Colors
• Do Flowers Flirt? Do Flowers Dance? How Do Bees Choose A Flower?

Resources

• Gardening Know How
• Flowers for Beneficial Insects
• The Adaptive Significance of Sensory Bias in a Foraging Context