10 plants that attract birds, bees and butterflies to Indian gardens

2. Sunflower

A sunflower (Photo: Wikipedia)

Sunflowers provide nectar for pollinators while in bloom. Once they set seed, finches, sparrows and other seed-eating birds feast on the flower heads.

Wildlife attracted: Bees, butterflies and birds

3. Milkweed

A butterfly on milkweed (Photo: Wikipedia)

Milkweed is famous for supporting butterflies, especially monarchs in regions where they occur. Its nectar-rich flowers also attract many native pollinators.

Wildlife attracted: Butterflies, bees and beneficial insects

4. Native hibiscus

Hibiscus (Photo: Wikipedia)

Hibiscus flowers offer nectar for birds and insects, while dense foliage can provide shelter for small wildlife. Native species are often more beneficial than ornamental hybrids.

Wildlife attracted: Sunbirds, bees and butterflies

5. Marigold

Marigold (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Easy to grow and brightly coloured, marigolds attract bees and butterflies while also helping deter certain garden pests naturally.

Wildlife attracted: Bees, butterflies and beneficial insects

6. Bottlebrush

A red bottle brush (Photo: Wikipedia)

Its brush-like red flowers produce abundant nectar, making bottlebrush a magnet for nectar-feeding birds and pollinating insects.

Wildlife attracted: Sunbirds, bees and butterflies

7. Berry-producing shrubs

Shrubs that produce berries provide an important food source for birds, especially during seasons when insects are scarce. They also offer nesting cover.

Wildlife attracted: Songbirds and small mammals

8. Jasmine

Jasmine (Photo: Wikipedia)

Many jasmine species release fragrance in the evening, attracting moths and nocturnal pollinators that play an important ecological role.

Wildlife attracted: Moths, bees and butterflies

9. Native grasses

Grasses are often overlooked but provide seeds for birds, shelter for insects and nesting material for wildlife. They also require relatively little maintenance.

Wildlife attracted: Birds, butterflies and beneficial insects

10. Basil (Tulsi and sweet basil)

If allowed to flower, basil becomes an excellent nectar source. Holy basil (tulsi) and sweet basil both attract numerous pollinating insects.

Wildlife attracted: Bees, butterflies and hoverflies