Top 5 Native Pollinator Plants for Late Summer in Vancouver and Clark County
As late summer rolls in, our gardens in Clark County can still be vibrant and full of life thanks to the wonderful variety of native plants that continue to bloom. These native species not only beautify our landscapes but also play a crucial role in supporting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Here are the top 5 native pollinator plants for late summer:
1. Douglas Aster (Symphyotrichum subspicatum)
Douglas Aster is a resilient and vibrant perennial that thrives in a variety of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. Its stunning purple-blue flowers bloom profusely in late summer, attracting a wide range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This hardy plant can add a splash of color to your garden while providing essential nectar and pollen for pollinators.
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, adaptable to various soil types
Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
2. Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis)
Canada Goldenrod is a vital late-summer bloomer that features bright yellow flower clusters. Despite the misconception that it causes hay fever, goldenrod is an important nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an easy and valuable addition to your garden.
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained
Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant
3. Fleabane (Erigeron spp.)
Fleabane is a charming perennial with delicate daisy-like flowers that bloom well into late summer. Its blossoms, which can be white, pink, or purple, provide a steady supply of nectar for pollinators. Fleabane is versatile, growing well in various soil types and thriving in both full sun and partial shade.
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, adaptable to various soil types
Water: Moderate
4. Hall's Aster (Symphyotrichum hallii)
Hall's Aster is a native perennial that offers striking white or pale lavender flowers in late summer. This plant is particularly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens. Hall's Aster prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate partial shade, making it suitable for different garden settings.
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained
Water: Moderate
5. Puget Gumweed (Grindelia integrifolia)
Puget Gumweed is a unique and hardy native plant with bright yellow, sticky flowers that bloom in late summer. It attracts a wide range of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. This plant is well-suited to coastal and dry habitats, thriving in sandy or well-drained soils, and is particularly valuable in naturalized garden settings.
Light: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy
Water: Low; very drought-tolerant
Conclusion
Incorporating these top 5 native pollinator plants into your late summer garden will not only enhance its beauty but also provide essential resources for local pollinators. By supporting these native species, you are helping to maintain the ecological balance and biodiversity of our region. Enjoy the vibrant blooms and the buzzing activity they bring to your garden!
