Top 10 Native Trees & Shrubs for Pollinators in Hampton Roads
Looking to enhance your yard with beautiful plants that support local wildlife and thrive in Hampton Roads? Southern Branch Nursery has you covered with a selection of native trees and shrubs that not only beautify your space but also help sustain pollinators like butterflies and moths.
Choosing native plants is one of the best ways to ensure your garden flourishes while supporting the local ecosystem. Most insects rely on specific native plants to complete their life cycles, and by incorporating these into your landscape, you’ll create a habitat that attracts and supports local wildlife.
Why Choose Native Trees for Your Hampton Roads Garden?
Native trees and shrubs have adapted to the Hampton Roads climate, making them more resilient to weather conditions and pests. They also provide food and shelter for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife, ensuring your garden becomes a thriving ecosystem.
At Southern Branch Nursery, we carry a variety of pollinator-friendly native plants that will transform your garden into a biodiversity hotspot.
Top Native Woody Host Plants at Southern Branch Nursery
Here are some of the best native woody host plants that we carry, perfect for creating a vibrant, pollinator-friendly garden in the Hampton Roads area:
Oaks are the cornerstone of any native garden. Hosting an impressive 513 species of butterflies and moths, they’re essential for supporting local wildlife. At Southern Branch Nursery, we carry several oak species, including:
Quercus alba (White Oak)
Q. muehlenbergii (Chinkapin Oak)
Q. marilandica (Blackjack Oak)
Q. virginiana (Live Oak) - evergreen!
Q. nigra (Water Oak)
Q. germinata (Sand Live Oak) - evergreen!
Q. bicolor (Swamp White Oak)
Q. phellos (Willow Oak)
Q. lyrata (Overcup Oak)
Q. michauxii (Swamp Chestnut Oak)
Q. falcata (Southern Red Oak)
By planting these majestic trees, you’ll provide habitat and food for caterpillars, birds, and other pollinators.
Cherries support an amazing 390 species of pollinators. Their spring blossoms are a favorite among pollinators, and the fruit feeds birds. Southern Branch Nursery carries:
P. americana (American Plum)
P. maritima (Beach Plum)
P. serotina (Black Cherry)
P. caroliniana (Carolina Cherry Laurel) - evergreen!
These trees are perfect for adding beauty and ecological function to your yard.
The River Birch supports 321 species of butterflies and moths, making it a vital addition to a pollinator-friendly garden. It thrives in wet areas, providing both aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits.
Willows, including the Black Willow, are excellent choices for wet areas, hosting 316 pollinator species. Their branches provide habitat, while the leaves serve as food for caterpillars.
Maples are versatile trees that not only offer vibrant fall colors but also support 274 species of pollinators. We carry:
Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
A. saccharum (Sugar Maple)
A. barbatum (Southern Sugar Maple)
Blueberries are popular not just for their edible berries but also for their support of 250 species of pollinators. Southern Branch Nursery offers:
Vaccinium corymbosum (Highbush Blueberry)
V. angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry)
V. ashei (Rabbiteye Blueberry)
These shrubs are excellent additions to any native garden.
Hickory are excellent for both wildlife and pollinators, supporting 239 species. Our nursery carries the following Hickory species, which provide food and shelter for local wildlife year-round.
C. illinoinensis (Pecan)
C. tomentosa (Mockernut Hickory)
C. glabra (Pignut Hickory)
C. ovata (Shagbark Hickory)
Pines are vital evergreens that support 238 species of pollinators. Pinus taeda (Loblolly Pine) is a staple in Hampton Roads’ landscapes and a great choice for providing habitat for local wildlife. We also carry the following:
P. virginiana (Virginia Pine)
P. palustris (Longleaf Pine)
Hazel Alders thrive in wet conditions and are perfect for rain gardens. Supporting 190 species of pollinators, they provide food for early-season pollinators.
American Elms are stately trees that support 180 species of pollinators. Their broad canopy and wildlife benefits make them a great choice for native landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Native Trees for Hampton Roads
What are the best native trees for pollinators in Hampton Roads?
The best native trees for pollinators in Hampton Roads include oaks, cherries, and birches, which support hundreds of species of butterflies and moths. Oaks alone can support up to 513 species, making them a keystone tree for wildlife.
How do I plant native trees for wildlife in Hampton Roads?
When planting native trees for wildlife, select species that offer habitat and food, like oaks, cherries, or blueberries. Here are some essential tips for planting:
Dig the hole to the same depth as the root ball of the plant and twice as wide. This allows roots to spread easily without being buried too deeply.
Replace the native soil in the hole after planting instead of using bagged soil, which helps the tree adapt to the local conditions.
Apply a thin layer of mulch (about 2-3 inches) around the tree's base, but be careful not to let the mulch touch the bark. This prevents rot and allows the tree to breathe while maintaining moisture.
Water regularly, especially in the first few years, to help establish strong roots. Avoid using chemical fertilizers, which can harm the local ecosystem and pollinators.
When is the best time to plant woody plants in Hampton Roads?
The best time to plant woody plants in Hampton Roads is in the fall. Planting in the fall allows trees and shrubs to establish their root systems before summer heat arrives. If fall planting isn't possible, aim to plant as far in advance of the summer heat as possible. It is also possible to plant throughout the winter, as our region’s mild winters allow for continued root development.
Which native trees support the most butterfly and moth species?
Oaks (Quercus sp.) support the most butterfly and moth species, hosting over 500 species in coastal Virginia. Cherries (Prunus sp.) and birches (Betula sp.) also support many pollinators.
Visit Southern Branch Nursery
Ready to add some of these amazing pollinator plants to your garden? Visit Southern Branch Nursery in Chesapeake, VA to browse our selection of native plants. Our team will help you select the best trees for your landscape and provide expert tips on how to care for them.
