Yellow ladybugs are not only adorable but also incredibly beneficial for your garden. These charming beetles are voracious predators that feast on common garden pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. By attracting yellow ladybugs to your landscape, you can control pest populations naturally without resorting to harmful pesticides.

One of the best ways to entice yellow ladybugs is by planting a variety of flowers and herbs that provide them with pollen, nectar, and shelter. From classic annuals like marigolds and cosmos to perennial favorites like yarrow and coreopsis, there are many beautiful plants that will lure these helpful insects to your garden.

By including a diverse array of ladybug-friendly plants that bloom from spring through fall, you’ll create a haven for these beneficial beetles and enjoy a healthier, more vibrant garden with fewer pest problems. So why not add some of these stunning flowers to your landscape and welcome yellow ladybugs to your garden?

12 Beautiful Garden Plants that Attract Yellow Ladybugs

If you’re looking to attract beneficial yellow ladybugs to your garden, planting the right flowers and herbs is key. Yellow ladybugs, also known as ladybird beetles, are natural predators that feed on garden pests like aphids, mealybugs and spider mites. By including plants that yellow ladybugs love in your garden design, you can create a beautiful and thriving ecosystem that naturally controls pests. Here are 12 stunning garden plants that are sure to attract yellow ladybugs.

1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds are annual flowers that bloom in vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red throughout the summer and fall. Their strong scent and pollen-rich blooms are highly attractive to yellow ladybugs. Marigolds are easy to grow from seed and thrive in sunny locations.

Plant marigolds in borders, beds or containers near vegetable gardens or other plants that are prone to pest infestations. The ladybugs they attract will help keep neighboring plants pest-free. Marigolds also make excellent companion plants, repelling nematodes and other pests with their pungent aroma.

For best results, choose varieties like French marigolds (Tagetes patula) or signet marigolds (Tagetes tenuifolia), which are especially appealing to ladybugs. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering and a steady supply of pollen for ladybugs throughout the season.

2. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)

Coreopsis, also called tickseed, is a genus of easy-care perennial wildflowers that attract yellow ladybugs with their abundant pollen and nectar. Their daisy-like flowers bloom in cheery shades of yellow, orange, red and bi-color combinations from early summer to fall.

These drought-tolerant and deer-resistant plants are a great choice for sunny borders, meadows or naturalized areas. They also perform well in containers. Coreopsis varieties range in height from petite 6-inch dwarf types to 4-foot tall giants, so there’s an option for every garden setting.

To entice yellow ladybugs, plant coreopsis in masses so there are plenty of blooms for them to feed on. Good varieties for attracting ladybugs include lanceleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata) and large-flowered tickseed (Coreopsis grandiflora). Regularly deadheading the spent flowers will prolong the blooming period.

3. Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)

Cosmos are colorful annual daisies that bloom prolifically from summer to frost on tall, airy stems. Their saucer-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red, pink and white are a favorite food source for yellow ladybugs and other beneficial insects.

These low-maintenance flowers are effortless to grow from seed sown directly in the garden. They tolerate poor soil and drought, making them ideal for busy gardeners. Cosmos look lovely planted in cottage gardens, cutting gardens or wildflower meadows. They also make great additions to pollinator gardens.

For a long-lasting supply of pollen and nectar to feed yellow ladybugs, choose tall varieties like yellow cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) or orange cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus ‘Bright Lights’). Cosmos flowers may self-sow in the garden, providing a natural food source for ladybugs year after year.

4. Dill (Anethum graveolens)

Dill is an aromatic annual herb with delicate, fern-like foliage and umbels of tiny yellow flowers. Its pollen-rich blooms are a magnet for yellow ladybugs and other beneficial insects like hoverflies and parasitic wasps.

This easy-to-grow herb thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Sow dill seeds directly in the garden in spring or fall. Once established, dill will often self-sow, providing a renewable food source for ladybugs. The wispy plants look lovely in herb gardens, vegetable plots or cottage gardens.

In addition to attracting ladybugs, dill is also the preferred host plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Its fragrant leaves and seeds are also delicious in the kitchen, adding flavor to pickles, salad dressings, fish and more. Plant extra dill to enjoy the ladybug-attracting blooms and harvest the foliage as needed.

5. Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)

Sweet alyssum is a charming low-growing annual flower that forms tidy mounds covered with clusters of tiny, fragrant blooms. Its honey-scented white, pink or lavender flowers are rich in pollen and highly appealing to yellow ladybugs.

This fast-growing, easy-care plant looks beautiful spilling over the edges of containers, window boxes or hanging baskets. In the garden, use sweet alyssum as a ground cover, border plant or living mulch under taller flowers and vegetables. Its dense foliage helps suppress weeds while attracting pest-eating ladybugs.

For the strongest ladybug-attracting power, choose white-flowered sweet alyssum varieties, which are the most fragrant. Shear plants back lightly after the first flush of blooms fade to encourage fresh flowers. In mild climates, sweet alyssum may self-sow, creating a recurring ladybug buffet.

6. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a tough, low-maintenance perennial flower that produces large, flat-topped clusters of tiny blooms from summer to fall. Its pollen-packed flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red, pink and white attract yellow ladybugs and many other beneficial insects.

This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and looks right at home in cottage gardens, wildflower meadows and naturalized areas. Its ferny, aromatic foliage is also deer and rabbit resistant. Yarrow spreads gradually by rhizomes to form dense clumps that can be divided every few years.

To maximize ladybug visits, plant yarrow varieties with yellow or gold flowers like ‘Coronation Gold’ or ‘Moonshine’. Yarrow also makes an excellent cut flower, so plant plenty to feed the ladybugs and enjoy cheery bouquets. Leave some spent flower heads standing in winter to provide hibernation sites.

7. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel is a perennial herb with feathery foliage and large umbels of tiny yellow flowers that appear in summer. Its pollen-rich blooms are highly attractive to yellow ladybugs and other beneficial insects like hoverflies, lacewings and parasitic wasps.

This tall, graceful plant looks stunning in the back of herb gardens, vegetable plots or flower beds. Its anise-flavored foliage and seeds are also delicious in cooking. Fennel prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, it is fairly drought tolerant. In some areas, fennel can self-sow prolifically, so remove flower heads before seeds ripen if spread is a concern.

Like dill, fennel is also a favorite food plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Plant enough for both ladybugs and butterflies to enjoy. The black swallowtail caterpillars won’t seriously harm the plant. Interplant fennel with lower-growing yellow-flowered herbs like thyme or oregano for a ladybug-attracting combination.

8. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)

Sunflowers are impressive annual flowers with large, showy blooms that tower over the garden in summer and fall. Their pollen-packed yellow, orange or red flowers are highly appealing to yellow ladybugs and many other beneficial insects.

These fast-growing, low-maintenance flowers are easy to grow from seed sown directly in the garden. They thrive in full sun and adapt to most well-drained soils. Sunflowers look spectacular planted in the back of flower beds, along fences or as a temporary summer hedge or screen. They also make stunning cut flowers.

To entice yellow ladybugs, choose pollen-rich sunflower varieties with a single row of petals around a large central disc, rather than fluffy double types. Good choices include ‘Lemon Queen’, ‘Velvet Queen’ or ‘Autumn Beauty’. Let sunflower heads dry on the plants in fall to provide ladybug hibernation sites and a natural bird feeder.

9. Angelica (Angelica archangelica)

Angelica is a statuesque biennial or short-lived perennial flower with large, rounded umbels of tiny greenish-yellow blooms that appear in summer. Its pollen and nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to yellow ladybugs and many other beneficial insects.

This impressive plant can reach 6 feet tall or more, making it an eye-catching addition to the back of flower borders, cottage gardens or woodland gardens. Its bold, celery-like foliage is also ornamental. Angelica prefers moist, rich soil and light shade, especially in hot climates. In some areas, it may self-sow freely.

Angelica is also the host plant for swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Plant it near dill or fennel to create a ladybug and butterfly oasis. The immature flower buds and stems are edible when cooked and have a celery-like flavor. Harvest sparingly to leave plenty of blooms for ladybugs.

10. Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria)

Golden marguerite is a cheerful perennial daisy with bright yellow, pollen-rich flowers that bloom from early summer to fall. These nectar-packed blooms are highly appealing to yellow ladybugs and other beneficial insects like hoverflies and lacewings.

This easy-care, drought-tolerant plant forms dense, 2 to 3-foot tall clumps that light up sunny borders, cottage gardens or meadows with their long-lasting golden flowers. Its ferny, aromatic foliage is also deer and rabbit resistant. Shear plants back by half after the first flush of blooms to encourage a second wave of ladybug-attracting flowers.

Golden marguerite looks stunning in masses or paired with other perennials like purple coneflower, black-eyed Susan and butterfly weed for a ladybug and pollinator extravaganza. The long-stemmed flowers also make fabulous bouquets. Plant extra to feed the ladybugs and brighten your vases.

11. Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

Tansy is a robust perennial flower with clusters of tiny, button-like yellow blooms that appear atop tall stems in summer. Its pollen and nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to yellow ladybugs and other beneficial insects.

This tough, adaptable plant thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and tolerates poor soil, drought and neglect. Its aromatic, fern-like foliage is also insect-repellent. Tansy can spread aggressively by rhizomes and self-seeding, so it’s best planted in contained areas like raised beds. In some regions, it’s considered invasive, so check local regulations before planting.

Tansy has a long history of use as a medicinal and culinary herb, but all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested in large quantities. It’s safest enjoyed as an ornamental ladybug attractor rather than an edible. Plant tansy in the back of herb gardens, wildflower meadows or cottage gardens where its statuesque golden flowers can feed ladybugs and create a striking backdrop for other plants.

12. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Butterfly weed is a native perennial wildflower with clusters of brilliant orange, pollen-rich blooms that appear from late spring to late summer. These nectar-packed flowers are highly appealing to yellow ladybugs and many other beneficial insects.

This low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plant forms upright, 2 to 3-foot tall clumps that add a punch of vivid color to sunny borders, meadows and naturalized areas. Its flowers are followed by attractive seed pods that split open to release silky-tailed seeds. Butterfly weed is also the host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars.

To maximize ladybug visits, plant butterfly weed in groups of three or more. Combine it with other yellow-flowered perennials like black-eyed Susan, goldenrod and golden marguerite for an irresistible ladybug smorgasbord. Butterfly weed’s long-lasting flowers also make striking bouquets. Plant plenty to feed ladybugs, butterflies and your vases.

FAQ

1. What do yellow ladybugs eat besides pollen and nectar?

In addition to feeding on pollen and nectar from flowers, yellow ladybugs are voracious predators that prey on soft-bodied garden pests like aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, whiteflies, scale and thrips. Ladybug larvae eat even more pests than adult beetles.

2. How many pest insects can a single ladybug eat?

A single ladybug can devour up to 5,000 aphids or other small pests over its lifetime. Ladybugs are particularly valuable in the garden because they prey on pests at all stages of their life cycle, from egg to adult.

3. What other plants attract ladybugs?

In addition to the 12 plants featured, many other pollen and nectar-rich flowers attract ladybugs, including:

• Asters
• Coneflowers
• Coreopsis
• Cosmos
• Dandelions
• Geraniums
• Milkweed
• Poppies
• Queen Anne’s lace
• Rudbeckia
• Zinnias

Herbs like cilantro, dill, fennel and yarrow are also ladybug magnets.

4. How can I encourage ladybugs to stay in my garden?

To encourage ladybugs to remain in your garden, provide them with a variety of pollen and nectar-rich flowers from spring to fall, as well as a source of water. Avoid using insecticides, which can harm ladybugs and other beneficial insects. You can also offer ladybugs hibernation sites by leaving some plant debris in the garden over winter.

5. Can I buy ladybugs to release in my garden?

While it’s possible to purchase ladybugs to release in your garden, this is generally not recommended. Many commercially available ladybugs are wild-caught and may not adapt well to your local climate and conditions. Additionally, releasing non-native ladybug species can disrupt local ecosystems. It’s better to attract native ladybugs to your garden naturally by planting the right flowers and providing a suitable habitat.

Final Thoughts

Creating a ladybug-friendly garden is a wonderful way to harness the power of nature to control pests and maintain a healthy, thriving landscape. By planting a diverse array of pollen and nectar-rich flowers like marigolds, cosmos, sunflowers and butterfly weed, you’ll attract these beneficial beetles and enjoy their pest-eating services all season long.

In addition to the 12 beautiful plants featured here, many other flowers, herbs and even weeds can help entice ladybugs to your garden. The key is to provide a steady supply of pollen and nectar from spring through fall, as well as a source of water and shelter.

By creating a haven for ladybugs and other beneficial insects, you’ll not only minimize pest problems, but also enjoy a more vibrant, diverse and sustainable garden filled with colorful blooms and fascinating wildlife. So why not add some of these ladybug-attracting plants to your landscape this season and watch your garden come alive with the bustling activity of these helpful garden allies?

Plant Name	Scientific Name	Flower Color	Bloom Time	Height	Sun Exposure
Marigolds	Tagetes spp.	Yellow, Orange, Red	Summer-Fall	6-36 inches	Full Sun
Coreopsis	Coreopsis spp.	Yellow, Orange, Red	Summer-Fall	6-48 inches	Full Sun
Cosmos	Cosmos spp.	Yellow, Orange, Pink, White	Summer-Fall	18-60 inches	Full Sun
Dill	Anethum graveolens	Yellow	Summer	24-48 inches	Full Sun
Sweet Alyssum	Lobularia maritima	White, Pink, Purple	Spring-Fall	4-6 inches	Full Sun to Part Shade
Yarrow	Achillea millefolium	Yellow, White, Pink, Red	Summer-Fall	24-36 inches	Full Sun
Fennel	Foeniculum vulgare	Yellow	Summer	48-72 inches	Full Sun
Sunflowers	Helianthus annuus	Yellow, Orange, Red	Summer-Fall	36-144 inches	Full Sun
Angelica	Angelica archangelica	Greenish-Yellow	Summer	48-72 inches	Part Shade
Golden Marguerite	Anthemis tinctoria	Yellow	Summer-Fall	24-36 inches	Full Sun
Tansy	Tanacetum vulgare	Yellow	Summer	36-48 inches	Full Sun
Butterfly Weed	Asclepias tuberosa	Orange	Late Spring-Summer	24-36 inches	Full Sun

This table provides a quick reference for gardeners looking to attract yellow ladybugs, showing key characteristics of each plant including its scientific name, flower color, bloom time, height, and sun exposure requirements.