Rocky Mountain Bee Plant: A Versatile Native Wildflower
Introduction
Have you ever seen a wildflower with tall, showy flowers that attract bees? That’s the Rocky Mountain bee plant, a native plant that’s both beautiful and beneficial. In this article, we’ll explore the Rocky Mountain bee plant, its uses, and how to grow it in your garden.
What is a Rocky Mountain Bee Plant?
The Rocky Mountain bee plant (Cleome serrulata) is a native plant found in the northern and central United States, as well as the Rocky Mountain region. It’s considered a weedy annual, but it’s also a valuable plant that people have cultivated for centuries.
Native Americans used the Rocky Mountain bee plant for food, medicine, and dye. Today, it’s primarily grown to attract bees and other pollinators. The plant produces clusters of pinkish purple to white flowers from late spring through early fall, which are a favorite food source for bees.
Benefits of Growing Rocky Mountain Bee Plants
There are many benefits to growing Rocky Mountain bee plants in your garden:
- Attract pollinators: The flowers of the Rocky Mountain bee plant are a major source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. By growing this plant, you can help support local bee populations.
- Beautify your garden: The tall, showy flowers of the Rocky Mountain bee plant make it a beautiful addition to any garden. It’s a great choice for attracting attention to a sunny spot or filling in a bare area.
- Easy to grow: Rocky Mountain bee plants are relatively easy to grow, even for beginners. They prefer light, well-drained soil and full sun or light shade.
How to Grow Rocky Mountain Bee Plants
If you’re interested in growing Rocky Mountain bee plants in your garden, here’s what you need to know:
1. Choose the right location: Rocky Mountain bee plants prefer light, well-drained soil and full sun or light shade. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or loam to improve drainage.
2. Plant the seeds: Rocky Mountain bee plants can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds directly in the garden in late spring or early summer. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
3. Water and fertilize: Water the Rocky Mountain bee plants regularly, especially after they’re first planted. Once they’re established, they’re fairly drought-tolerant. Fertilize the plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
4. Deadhead the flowers: To prevent the Rocky Mountain bee plants from self-sowing, deadhead the flowers after they’ve finished blooming. This will encourage the plants to produce more flowers throughout the season.
Conclusion
The Rocky Mountain bee plant is a versatile native wildflower that’s both beautiful and beneficial. By growing this plant in your garden, you can attract pollinators, beautify your landscape, and enjoy the many other benefits it has to offer.
