The UK’s native bee species have evolved alongside domestic wildflowers for thousands of years. Unsurprisingly, these flowers remain some of the most irresistible items on the menu for many foraging bees.
Seeds can be easily bought and planted. And with so many varieties available, plants of all shapes, sizes and colours can be worked into your current bed.
Here are some of the most fancied wildflowers to consider.
Name: Bluebells
When to plant: Autumn (from seeds)
When they flower: Summer
Popular with: Bumblebees
Name: Clover
When they flower: Summer
Popular with: Bumblebees
Name: Lesser Celandine
When they flower: Winter
Popular with: Bumblebees, Mining Bees
Name: Lungwort
When to plant: Spring, summer, autumn
When they flower: Summer
Popular with: Hairy-footed Flower Bees, Bumblebees
Name: Hellebore
When to plant: Early spring (from bulbs)
When they flower: Spring
Popular with: Bumblebees
Name: Field Speedwell
When they flower: Early spring
Popular with: Mining Bees, Bumblebees
Name: Viper's Bugloss
When to plant: Autumn (from seeds)
When they flower: Summer
Popular with: Bumblebees
Name: Wood Forget-me-not
When they flower: Summer
Popular with: Mason Bees, Mining Bees
Name: Foxglove
When to plant: Late spring (from seeds)
When they flower: Summer
Popular with: Bumblebees
Name: Cowslip
When they flower: Spring
Popular with: Hairy-footed Flower Bee, Bumblebees
Name: White Deadnettle
When they flower: Autumn
Popular with: Bumblebees
Name: Yarrow
When they flower: Autumn
Popular with: Mining Bees, Mason Bees