Lavender and Bees
Lavender and bees have a symbiotic relationship that is essential for both the survival of the plant and the health of the bee population. The fragrant purple flowers of the lavender plant are a favourite among bees, and their pollination helps to ensure the plant’s reproduction. In turn, the nectar and pollen that bees gather from lavender plants provide them with the nutrients they need to survive.
This relationship is not limited to just one continent, but it is seen all around the world, with different species of bees and lavender that exist in different parts of the world. For example, in Europe, the honeybee (Apis mellifera) is the primary pollinator of lavender, while in North America, the bumblebee (Bombus spp.) is the most common pollinator. In addition, the most common species of lavender in Europe is the English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) while in North America, the most common species of lavender is the Lavandula intermedia or Grosso.
The importance of bees to the pollination of lavender and other plants is well-documented. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, honeybees are responsible for pollinating approximately 15% of global food crops. However, the global bee population has been declining in recent years due to factors such as habitat loss and pesticide use. This is particularly concerning as bees play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and ensuring food security.
To help support bee populations, farmers and gardeners can take steps such as planting a variety of flowers and avoiding the use of pesticides. Additionally, organizations such as the British Beekeepers Association and the North American Pollinator Protection Campaign provide resources and support for those interested in helping bees and other pollinators.
Bees are attracted to lavender’s nectar-rich flowers, which bloom in the summer. The plant’s fragrant flowers produce a high amount of nectar, providing a valuable food source for bees and other pollinators. The bees then transfer pollen from flower to flower, facilitating the plant’s reproduction and enabling the production of seeds and seedlings.
In addition to providing food for bees, lavender also has other benefits for bees. The plant’s oil has been found to have antimicrobial properties, which can protect bees from diseases and parasites. Furthermore, the oil also has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help bees to recover from the stress of foraging.
In conclusion, the relationship between lavender and bees is an important one that plays a vital role in the pollination of the plant and the health of the bee population. By understanding this relationship and taking steps to support bees, we can help to ensure the survival of both bees and the plants they pollinate.
What about other pollinators?
it is not only bees that are attracted to the plant’s nectar. In fact, a variety of pollinators are drawn to the fragrant blooms of lavender, including butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, and bumblebees.
Butterflies are a common sight in lavender fields, and they play a crucial role in pollinating plants. They are particularly drawn to the bright purple flowers, which offer a source of nectar and pollen. Some of the most common butterfly species that visit lavender include the painted lady, the common blue, and the red admiral.
Moths are also important pollinators of lavender. They are active at night and are attracted to the strong scent of the flowers. The lavender sphinx moth, also known as the hummingbird moth, is a particularly striking example. Its long proboscis allows it to reach deep into the flowers to collect nectar, and in the process, it also picks up pollen and transfers it to the next flower it visits.
Hummingbirds are another important pollinator of lavender. They are attracted to the bright colours and the nectar-rich flowers of the plant. These tiny birds are incredibly efficient pollinators, and they are able to visit hundreds of flowers in a single day.
Bumblebees are also known to visit lavender fields, although not as much as honeybees. Bumblebees are known for their distinctive black and yellow colouration, and they are important pollinators of a wide variety of plants. They are particularly effective at pollinating lavender due to their fuzzy bodies, which easily pick up and transfer pollen between flowers.
In summary, while bees are known to be the primary pollinator of lavender, a variety of other pollinators such as butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, and bumblebees also play an important role in the pollination of this herb. It’s important to note that the diversity of pollinators varies depending on the region, for example in Europe honeybees are the most common pollinators while in the Americas hummingbirds are more prevalent.
References:
- Westphal, C., Bartomeus, I., Carvalheiro, L. G., Francis, R., Winfree, R., Aguilar, R., … & Potts, S. G. (2016). Non-native crops benefit from native pollinators. Journal of Applied Ecology, 53(2), 541-548.
- Lavender and bees. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.bbka.org.uk/learn/bees-and-the-environment/flowers-and-bees/lavender-and-bees
- North American Pollinator Protection Campaign. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.pollinator.org/
- https://honeybeeandco.uk/
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=937
- https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-46091668
- https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animals/insects-pollinators-most-important-pollinators/
- https://www.entomologytoday.org/2015/07/08/why-are-pollinators-important/