Bidens alba or Bidens pilosa.

Considered a weed by many in central Florida, these flowers are a favorite of honeybees, butterflies, and many native pollinators. They are prolific and produce stiff black seeds that stick to clothing, pets, and skin. But if you can stand to allocate a section of your yard or garden for these somewhat shrub-like plants, they will do a great deal for a variety of pollinators in your area. According to Green Deane, “In Florida B. alba is the third most common reliable source of nectar.” He continues, “The second most common nectar producer in Florida is the saw palmetto and the top producer is the non-native, citrus.” ¹⁾

Richardia scabbra

Our next pollinator friendly plant is another “weed” common in central Florida. Pusley is a vining ground cover that produces tiny star-shaped white flowers. Grass or sod lawns are food deserts for honeybees, but when allowed to grow amongst the lawn these flowers can give them a helpful rest stop. This member of the coffee family can make a great grass substitute for anyone wanting a low maintenance lawn. It's low profile can reduce or eliminate the need for mowing. It also is drought tolerant and loves full sun and sandy soil. This plant does like to over take walkways and low profile garden edging, so be vigilant if there are areas where you don't want these vines encroaching.

Ocimum kilimandscharicum X Ocimum basilicum

This herb is perfect for anyone not wanting to encourage the growth of weeds in their yard or garden. African blue basil is a hybrid between camphor basil and dark opal basil that does not produce viable seeds. These plants are propagated through cutting, and will not take over the garden. The plants are relatively hardy and very aromatic. Many people are reluctant to allow their traditional varieties of basil to flower (although the bees would love them too), so bringing this gem into garden in addition can satisfy your pollinators while keeping your favorite variety of fresh basil for yourself.