December in the UK can be a challenging time for pollinators, as many plants have already finished flowering. However, here are some of the best flowering trees and shrubs for pollinators during this time:
- Winter flowering honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima)
- Christmas Box (Sarcococca confusa)
- Winter heather (Erica carnea)
- Witch Hazel (Hamamelis mollis)
- Winter-flowering Viburnum (Viburnum bodnantense)
- Mahonia (Mahonia x media)
- Winter-flowering cherry (Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’)
- Garrya elliptica
- Skimmia japonica
- Winter-flowering jasmine (Jasminum nudiflorum)
All of these plants provide much-needed nectar and pollen for pollinators during the winter months. However, it’s worth noting that many pollinators may be in hibernation during this time, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see as many as you would in the warmer months.