If you want to create a garden that will not bring some color and brightness to your space but also attract a variety of pollinators then zinnias are definitely the way to go. Zinnias are some of the best flowers for drawing in butterflies, bees and even hummingbirds.
They have easy to access nectar for wildlife and a vibrant range of colors that provides an abundant food source for pollinators throughout the growing season. But which are the best?
Well the following six zinnia varieties are excellent for pollinators. We’ll help you choose the right ones along with tips on how to grow them.
1. Benary’s Giant Mix
Why Pollinators Love It: This popular variety grows tall (up to 4 feet), making it a prime landing spot for butterflies and bees. The single-flowered form of Benary’s Giant means pollinators can easily access the nectar at the center of the flower, a crucial feature for feeding.
- Height: 3-4 feet tall
- Best For: Butterflies and bees
- Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-draining soil
- Watering: Water deeply once a week
- Care: Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooms
2. Zinderella Series
Why Pollinators Love It: The Zinderella series, particularly the Zinderella Lilac and Peach varieties, have a semi-double flower form that still provides pollinators with easy access to nectar. They bloom profusely, creating a rich nectar source from summer through fall.
- Height: 2-3 feet tall
- Best For: Butterflies and bees
- Growing Conditions: Thrives in full sun
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
- Care: Keep soil consistently moist during hot spells for best results
3. Cut and Come Again Mix
Why Pollinators Love It: This variety is true to its name – once you cut a flower it quickly produces another. Pollinators benefit from the continuous supply of nectar while you get fresh blooms throughout the growing season.
- Height: 2 feet tall
- Best For: Bees, butterflies and hummingbirds
- Growing Conditions: Plant in a sunny spot for best results
- Watering: Water regularly to maintain healthy blooms
- Care: Harvest flowers to encourage new growth and keep them blooming all season long
4. Purple Prince
Why Pollinators Love It: Purple is a favorite color for pollinators, especially bees, and Purple Prince delivers with large, stunning blooms. Its bold color is a beacon for bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects.
- Height: 3 feet tall
- Best For: Bees and butterflies
- Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun, well-drained soil
- Watering: Deeply water once a week
- Care: Pinch back early to encourage branching and more flowers
5. Lilliput Mix
Why Pollinators Love It: Lilliput zinnias are compact but they still pack a punch for pollinators. Their small, open blooms are easy for bees and butterflies to access and they grow well in tight garden spaces or containers, offering great flexibility.
- Height: 1-2 feet tall
- Best For: Bees and butterflies
- Growing Conditions: Ideal for full sun and slightly moist soil
- Watering: Water every few days to maintain soil moisture
- Care: Perfect for gardeners with limited space who want to attract pollinators
6. Profusion Series
Why Pollinators Love It: The Profusion series is one of the most resilient zinnias available. These flowers handle heat and humidity well and their open flower structure is excellent for pollinators. The Profusion Red variety is particularly effective at attracting hummingbirds.
- Height: 1-2 feet tall
- Best For: Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Growing Conditions: Full sun, drought-tolerant once established
- Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry
- Care: Minimal care required—great for hot, dry climates
Tips for Growing Zinnias for Pollinators
To maximize the pollinator-friendly potential of your zinnia garden consider the following tips:
Choose Single or Semi-Double Varieties
Single or semi-double zinnias have open centers which makes it easier for pollinators to reach the nectar. Double-flowered varieties, while beautiful, can sometimes obscure the nectar source, making them less attractive to pollinators.
Plant a Variety of Colors
Different pollinators are attracted to different colors. Butterflies, for example, are drawn to bright pinks, oranges and purples, while bees tend to favor white, yellow, and purple flowers.
Provide Adequate Water
Pollinators, particularly bees, need water for hydration and cooling. A shallow dish of water with stones for bees to land on will keep them happy and help them stick around your garden.
Zinnias are not only easy to grow but they are also a top choice for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Making sure you choose the right varieties and provide the best growing conditions is key, and if you get it right you can enjoy a garden buzzing with life all season long.