Should you have a penchant for the invigorating smell of a newly sliced pineapple, you can recreate this delightful aroma in your outdoor space by cultivating pineapple sage (Salvia elegans). An appealing evergreen plant belonging to the mint genus, it features foliage that releases a fruit-like scent upon being bruised. Its striking scarlet, tube-shaped blooms appear on elongated stems, drawing both pollinating insects and hummingbirds to your yard. Pineapple sage thrives best within USDA climate zones 8 to 10; however, it may be cultivated annually elsewhere. Thus, it serves as a key component in fostering a thriving pollinator haven. Yet, if enhancing bee and butterfly presence is desired further, consider combining it with alternative preferred plants sharing comparable growth requirements and equal appeal among helpful garden guests.
If you want to select plants with similar growth requirements, remember that pineapple sage thrives best in sunny locations and needs soil that stays damp but drains well. Other species that can flourish under these circumstances and draw various types of pollinators consist of coneflowers, marigolds, borage, nasturtiums, and calendulas.
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Coneflower
Who isn’t captivated by the charming blossoms of coneflowers (Echinacea angustifolia), known for their drooping petals and prominent cone-shaped centers? These perennials thrive in USDA zones 3 to 8, drawing local bees and butterflies. Additionally, these plants serve as hosts for the larvae of the wavy-lined emerald moths. Although removing faded flowers can encourage further blooming, leaving some intact allows seeds to scatter naturally, which attracts various songbirds to your garden.
African Marigold
African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) make excellent choices for attracting pollinators with their vibrant gardens. These plants boast blossoms in shades of yellow and orange and thrive across climate zones from 2 to 11. Their aromatic flowers draw various butterfly species. However, be cautious during flower removal since the sap might lead to significant skin reactions in certain individuals; additionally, the fragrance could irritate eyes and nasal passages.
Borage
You’re likely aware that borage (Borago officinalis) is a great inclusion in a vegetable garden, but it can also enhance your pollinator area when planted with pineapple sage. This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 11 and prefers sunny spots with well-draining soil. Its attractive blue blossoms attract bees and other pollinators, and these flowers are safe for consumption; however, the leaves have tannins which may lead to toxicity in both humans and animals.
Nasturtium
If you desire vibrant colors surrounding your pineapple sage, nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) would gladly oblige. The vivid yellow and orange blossoms will drape over the plant, thriving in zones 2 through 11. Nasturtiums are simple to cultivate, and their cheerful blooms will draw various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Moreover, these edible flowers offer a mildly peppery taste and can add an impressive touch when included in summertime salads.
Calendula
Commonly referred to as pot marigold, Calendula officinalis is another plant that complements pineapple sage beautifully. This attractive annual features vibrant orange or yellow blossoms, though you can find varieties with red petals too. It’s a
gorgeous variety of calendula that is perfect for filling gaps in your garden
It thrives in climate zones 2 to 11, and its attractive blooms will draw butterflies and various pollinators. Additionally, these plants are edible. If you remove the spent flowers, it should promote more flowering.
Bee Balm
You can anticipate vibrant colors in your pollinator garden when you include bee balm (Monarda didyma) along with your pineapple sage. This striking herbaceous perennial originates from the eastern North American mountain regions and flourishes in hardiness zones 4 through 9. After planting, you will be amazed by the number of insects drawn to these flowers. These plants act as a beacon for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Additionally, you may find it intriguing to know that this is among the
top aromatic plants to add to your potted patio garden
.
White Beardtongue
For some variety in your garden, you could think about adding white beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis). This plant is a clumping perennial that thrives well within USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8. Its two-lipped tube-like blooms will draw bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds into your outdoor space. It’s indeed one such
blossoms that can turn your area into a haven for hummingbirds
As an added treat, this attractive plant will attract a diversity of songbirds as well.
Fernleaf Yarrow
Although common yarrow is regarded as an invader in numerous regions across the U.S., its cousin, fernleaf yarrow (Achillea filipendulina), does not appear on any invasive plant registries. Its broad, golden-yellow flower heads will attract numerous pollinator visitors and can also be harvested for drying purposes. This variety thrives within climate zones 3 to 9 and adapts well to environments akin to those preferred by pineapple sage. By consistently removing faded blossoms throughout the season, you’ll enjoy continuous flowering from spring into fall.
Perennial Cornflower
Should you have an affection for lovely cornflower blossoms, think about incorporating this perennial cornflower (Centaurea montana). This variety isn’t classified as invasive within the U.S. Its ideal growth conditions include hardiness zones 3 to 8, featuring stunningly vivid blue petals adorned with striking reddish-blue centers. Such vibrant hues attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Since this type typically doesn’t exceed 2 feet tall at maturity, it serves excellently as edging alongside more towering plants—such as pineapple sage—which can reach heights up to 5 feet.
Sulphur Cosmos
You can add splashes of yellow and orange to your garden by planting sulphur cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) next to your red-blooming pineapple sage. This appealing annual plant flourishes in growing zones 2 through 11 and transforms your outdoor area into a paradise for butterflies. The plant develops rapidly, creating an approximately three-foot-wide cluster adorned with numerous daisy-shaped flowers throughout spring until autumn. Additionally, should you allow the dried seeds to scatter across the ground, they’ll self-sow, resulting in many new seedlings that can populate your whole flower bed.
Butterfly Milkweed
A pollinator garden wouldn’t be fully equipped without incorporating some butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa). This robust, indigenous perennial thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 9 and serves as a vital food source for monarch caterpillars. Additionally, the striking bunches of vibrant orange blooms draw an array of butterflies, bees, and even hummingbirds. However, remember that this plant can cause mild toxicity in people and poses serious risks to animals like dogs, cats, and small children; therefore, ensure these creatures stay clear of it.
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