Bees are incredibly important pollinators in our gardens and landscapes. They play a crucial role in pollinating flowers, which leads to the production of fruits, vegetables, and seeds. While we have mainly focused on plants that produce pollen for bees, it is equally important to provide them with sources of nectar. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a fantastic plant for attracting bees, as it offers a generous amount of nectar.
Russian Sage is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to Central Asia and has become a popular garden plant in many parts of the world. This plant produces beautiful lavender-blue flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall, making it a valuable late-season nectar source for bees.
Carpenter bees, leafcutting bees, and honey bees are particularly attracted to Russian Sage. These bees are known as generalist foragers, meaning they visit a wide variety of flowers for nectar and pollen. Russian Sage provides them with a reliable and abundant source of nectar, which is a vital energy source for their daily activities.
One of the reasons bees are attracted to Russian Sage is its high nectar production. The plant produces copious amounts of nectar, which is a sweet liquid rich in sugars. Bees are naturally drawn to the sugary nectar as it provides them with the carbohydrates they need for energy. Russian Sage’s abundant nectar supply serves as a valuable food source for bees, especially during periods when other flowering plants may be less abundant.
The flower structure of Russian Sage also plays a role in attracting bees. The lavender-blue flowers are tubular in shape, with a long tube-like corolla and a protruding style and stamens. This flower shape is well-suited for bees with long tongues, like honey bees and some bumblebees, as they can easily access the nectar deep within the flower. The tubular flowers also provide protection for the nectar, preventing it from evaporating quickly and making it more accessible to bees.
Additionally, the color of the flowers can be attractive to bees. Bees have excellent color vision and are particularly attracted to blue and purple hues. The vibrant lavender-blue color of Russian Sage flowers acts as a visual cue, guiding bees towards the nectar-rich rewards.
In my own gardening experience, I have witnessed the buzzing activity of bees around Russian Sage. It is truly a sight to behold, as numerous bees gather to collect nectar from the flowers. The bees dart from one flower to another, their fuzzy bodies covered in pollen, as they diligently forage for nectar to bring back to their colonies. It is a joy to observe these industrious creatures at work, benefiting both the bees and my garden.
Bees are essential pollinators, and providing them with nectar sources is crucial for their survival and the health of our gardens and ecosystems. Russian Sage is a fantastic plant for attracting bees due to its high nectar production, tubular flower shape, and attractive lavender-blue color. Carpenter bees, leafcutting bees, and honey bees are particularly drawn to Russian Sage, making it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape seeking to support these important pollinators.
