Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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climbing plants for bees

Looking to create a bee-friendly garden in New Zealand? Choosing the right climbing plants for bees is a wonderful way to support local pollinators, add lush greenery, and enjoy seasonal colour. Climbing plants are ideal for smaller gardens, as they can cover fences and walls, or add vertical interest to larger landscapes. Bees rely on nectar-rich blooms, so selecting climbers that flower throughout the warmer months will keep your garden humming with happy pollinators.

Leonotis leonurus shrub with masses of orange flowers.

Leonotis leonurus (Lions Tail Plant)

Leonotis leonurus, commonly known as the Lions Tail Plant, is a shrub grown for its interesting flowers and foliage. Its unusualness comes from spikes of tubular, orange flowers produced in summer at the ends of branches. The foliage is mid-green and has a drooping appearance. It typically grows to 1 m tall the same wide. Leonotis leonurus is commonly included in mixed plantings, planted for winter interest, maintained in a container, kept as a houseplant, or simply grown for its unusualness.

Buy Leonotis leonurus (Lions Tail Plant)

From $26.93

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 1.00 m

Spread: 1.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock

Rhaphidophora decursiva

Rhaphidophora decursiva, commonly known as the Dragon Tail Plant or Philodendron Dragon, is a climber that features lush foliage and often grown as an indoor plant. The leaves are large and dark green, and very aesthetic. It will slowly climb a pole or the like or grow as a spreading ground cover if it has nothing to climb. Rhaphidophora decursiva is commonly grown as a potted plant with a pole to climb, planted outdoors in frost free areas around outdoor living areas, or used in offices and foyers.

Buy Rhaphidophora decursiva

From $52.58

Suited to regions: Subtropical

Plant type: Indoor Plants

Height: 40 cm

Spread: 70 cm

Tolerances: Shade

Garden uses: Arches, Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Tropical, White

Why Choose Climbing Plants for Bees?

Climbing plants for bees play a vital role in attracting and nourishing both honey bees and native bee species. Their abundant and accessible flowers encourage bees to visit your garden, which in turn supports pollination for vegetables, fruit, and ornamental plants. Vertical climbers help utilise space efficiently, turning plain walls and fences into living habitats while adding varied textures and scents to your outdoor sanctuary.

Top Climbing Plants for Bees in New Zealand

Several climbing plants thrive in New Zealand and are especially appealing to bees. Favourites include star jasmine, passionfruit (Passiflora), hardenbergia, clematis, and honeysuckle. All are valued for their long flowering seasons, sweet scent, and abundant nectar.

Another excellent option is Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig), a vigorous climber that creates a dense screen of evergreen foliage. While its flowers are often hidden, their subtle nectar can still attract foraging bees and beneficial insects.

Companion Plants to Enhance Bee Habitats

Pairing climbing plants for bees with other bee-attracting species maximises your garden’s value as a pollinator haven. Underplant climbers with border plants like Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant), known for its silvery foliage and clusters of small summer flowers that draw in bees and hoverflies. For a burst of orange that truly stands out, plant Leonotis leonurus (Lions Tail Plant). Its bold, tubular blooms provide both vibrant colour for your garden and a vital food source for bees and butterflies.

For shaded areas or containers indoors, consider lush green options like Rhaphidophora decursiva. While mainly grown for its architectural foliage, it adds layered interest to bee-friendly planting schemes. Chlorophytum Golden Glow (Chlorophytum comosum Spider Plant) also works well in sheltered corners or as a companion in bee-focused container gardens.

Tips for Growing Bee-Friendly Climbers

To get the most from your climbing plants for bees, plant where they’ll receive good sunlight and avoid chemical pesticides. Train vines along supports, trellises, or fences for the best flowering displays. Water deeply during dry spells and mulch in spring to retain soil moisture. As climbers grow, trim lightly after the main flowering period to encourage ongoing blooms and access for foraging bees.

Create a Buzz with Climbing Plants for Bees

By choosing climbing plants for bees, you’ll enjoy a livelier garden and help support New Zealand’s precious pollinators. Explore our range including Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig), Helichrysum petiolare (Licorice Plant), and Leonotis leonurus (Lions Tail Plant), and let your garden become a safe haven for bees year after year.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.