I knew that Butterflies pollinated Atamasco-lilies (Zephyranthes atamasca) but I always assumed that they were too big to attract bees. Well, today I found out that I was wrong. Click here to watch this little native bee collecting pollen. IMG_0110. The anther is bigger than he (or is it she) is. I am impressed. In our area, they bloom from October to April. They do best in average to wet, high calcium soils.
If your garden is too dry for Atamasco-lilies plant Zephyranthes simpsonii (Simpson’s Zephyr-lilies). This very rare native native thrives on well-drained soils, especially if there are shells in the ground.
If you think your soil is too acid, plant the rare Zephyranthes treatiae (Treat’s Zephyr-lily). It grows in acid bogs in South Georgia and North Florida. All three of these species are for sale in the nursery now. Plant some in your garden and help the little bees out.