Fleabane, also known as Erigeron, is indeed a great plant for wildlife. It has several characteristics that make it highly attractive to various species, including bees, butterflies, and dragonflies. In fact, it is even recognized by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) as being perfect for pollinators.
One of the main reasons why fleabane is beneficial for wildlife is its ability to attract bees. Bees play a crucial role in pollination, helping to fertilize plants and ensure their reproduction. By planting fleabane in your garden, you are providing these essential pollinators with a valuable food source. Bees are particularly drawn to the small, daisy-like flowers of the fleabane plant, which provide them with nectar and pollen.
Butterflies are also attracted to fleabane. These beautiful creatures rely on nectar as a food source, and the flowers of the fleabane plant provide them with just that. By planting fleabane, you can create a haven for butterflies in your garden, allowing them to feed and thrive. Observing butterflies fluttering around your fleabane plants can be a delightful sight and a rewarding experience.
Dragonflies, with their iridescent colors and impressive flight abilities, are another group of wildlife that are drawn to fleabane. These fascinating insects are natural predators and feed on smaller insects, such as mosquitoes and flies. By attracting dragonflies to your garden through the planting of fleabane, you can help naturally control populations of these pesky insects. Dragonflies also add an element of beauty and interest to any outdoor space.
In addition to attracting bees, butterflies, and dragonflies, fleabane can also provide a habitat for other wildlife. Its dense foliage offers shelter and protection for small creatures like spiders and beetles. These insects, in turn, can attract birds to your garden, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports a wide range of wildlife.
When considering the benefits of fleabane for wildlife, it is important to note that not all varieties of fleabane are equally attractive to pollinators. The RHS has compiled a list of plants that have been scientifically proven to be good for pollinators, and certain species of fleabane have made it onto this list. It is recommended to choose these specific varieties when selecting fleabane for your garden to ensure maximum benefit for wildlife.
Fleabane is an excellent plant choice for attracting bees, butterflies, and dragonflies. Its flowers provide a valuable food source for these pollinators, and its foliage offers shelter for other insects. By planting fleabane in your garden, you can create a wildlife-friendly space that supports a diverse range of species.