The best pollinator plants for European gardens are Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Echinacea, Salvia nemorosa, Verbena bonariensis, and Buddleja (Butterfly Bush) — flowering perennials and shrubs that provide nectar and pollen from spring through to late autumn. Browse our pollinator plant collection with delivery across Europe.

Why Are Pollinators Important?

Approximately 75% of the world's flowering plants depend on animal pollinators — primarily bees, butterflies, moths, hoverflies, and beetles. In Europe, wild bee populations have declined by up to 40% in some regions due to habitat loss and pesticide use. A garden planted with high-nectar species can support up to 4,000 bee visits per day during peak season, providing a significant contribution to local pollinator populations.

Best Pollinator Plants by Flowering Season

• Spring (March–May) — Crocus, Hellebore, Pulmonaria (Lungwort), Muscari; critical early-season nectar when bumblebee queens emerge from hibernation
• Early summer (June–July) — Lavender, Salvia nemorosa, Allium, Geranium; peak pollinator activity period
• Late summer (August–September) — Echinacea, Rudbeckia, Verbena bonariensis, Agastache; essential for bees building winter stores
• Autumn (October–November) — Persicaria, Aster, Sedum spectabile; vital for late-flying species including ivy bees

How to Create a Pollinator Garden

Plant in blocks of at least 5–10 plants of each species — pollinators locate food sources more efficiently when flowers are grouped together. Aim for a minimum of 5 different species flowering at any one time from March to November. Leave areas of bare soil or short grass for ground-nesting bees, and avoid mulching densely — 70% of UK and European bee species nest in the ground.

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