Creeping phlox does attract bees. I have personally experienced this in my garden. The vibrant flowers and strong fragrance of creeping phlox are a magnet for bees. I have observed bees buzzing around my creeping phlox plants for several weeks during late spring.
The creeping phlox variety, also known as moss phlox or mountain phlox, is a low-growing plant that forms a dense carpet of flowers. The flowers are usually pink, purple, or white, and they bloom for an extended period of time. This extended blooming period is one of the reasons why creeping phlox is so attractive to bees.
Bees are attracted to flowers because they provide a source of nectar and pollen. Creeping phlox flowers are rich in nectar, which is a sweet liquid that bees use as a source of energy. Bees collect nectar from flowers by inserting their long tongues, known as proboscis, into the flower’s nectar tubes. As they consume the nectar, they inadvertently transfer pollen from the flower’s male reproductive organs to the female reproductive organs, thus enabling the plant to reproduce.
The bright colors of creeping phlox flowers also play a role in attracting bees. Bees have good color vision, and they are particularly attracted to flowers that are blue, purple, and yellow. Creeping phlox flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white, which are within the color range that bees find appealing.
In addition to their attractive flowers, creeping phlox plants also emit a strong fragrance. This fragrance is another factor that entices bees to visit the flowers. Bees have a highly developed sense of smell, and they are able to detect the scent of flowers from a considerable distance. The scent of creeping phlox is like a beacon for bees, drawing them in and guiding them to the source of nectar.
I have noticed that when my creeping phlox is in full bloom, there is a constant buzz of bees in my garden. It’s a delightful sight and sound, knowing that my garden is providing a valuable food source for these important pollinators.
To summarize, creeping phlox does indeed attract bees. Its bright flowers, strong fragrance, and extended blooming period make it a favorite of bees during late spring. If you want to attract bees to your garden, planting creeping phlox is a great choice. Not only will you be providing a food source for bees, but you’ll also be rewarded with a beautiful carpet of flowers that will brighten up your landscape.