Looking for a flower that’s tough, pretty, and pollinator-friendly? Coneflowers (aka Echinacea) are drought-tolerant native wildflowers that prefer full sun and attract many different pollinators. Their name comes from the Greek word "echinos," meaning hedgehog or sea urchin, referring to the flower's spiky center. They are also known for their medicinal properties. Historically, Native Americans used them to treat various ailments.  Today, many people take echinacea supplements to help boost their immune systems. 

Hydrangeas are immensely popular in gardens due to their stunning blooms. With over 75 species worldwide, only six are commonly grown here. Of course, these six species encompass over 600 varieties, so you are definitely not limited in your options.  One variety, the bigleaf hydrangea, is so versatile that its flowers can even change colors based on the pH of your soil. These beauties have a dark side. They contain a compound that can release cyanide when digested, so keep a close eye on children & pets around them. 

Zinnias are one of the stars of the summer garden. With vibrant flowers that bloom from summer through fall, zinnias are low-maintenance and excellent for attracting a variety of pollinators, especially butterflies and bees. They also make great additions to a cut flower garden, because they are true "cut-and-come-again" flowers. The more you harvest, the more they produce. These sun lovers tolerate heat well and aren’t fussy about soil conditions. Few flowers can match zinnias when it comes to both beauty and ease.