Flowers That Attract Flies: A Comprehensive Guide

When we think of beautiful flowers, we often imagine them attracting bees and butterflies. However, there are certain types of flowers that also attract flies. While this might not sound appealing at first, there are actually many benefits to having these flowers in your garden. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the most common flowers that attract flies and why you might want to consider adding them to your garden.

The Benefits of Having Flowers That Attract Flies

Before we dive into the different types of flowers, let's talk about why you might want to have flowers that attract flies in your garden. Here are a few reasons:

• Pollination: Flies are great pollinators and can help to spread pollen from flower to flower.
• Pest Control: Some types of flies are natural predators for other pests, such as aphids and mites.
• Decomposition: Flies are also important in the decomposition process. They can help to break down organic matter and turn it into compost.

The Top 5 Flowers That Attract Flies

Now that we've covered the benefits, let's take a look at some of the top flowers that attract flies:

1. Corpse Flower (Amorphophallus titanium)

The corpse flower, also known as the titan arum, is one of the most well-known flowers that attracts flies. As the name suggests, it emits a strong odor that smells like rotting flesh. This scent is what attracts flies, which then help to pollinate the flower. While the odor might not be pleasant for humans, the corpse flower is still a beautiful and unique addition to any garden.

2. Skunk Cabbage (Symplocarpus foetidus)

Another plant that emits a foul odor is the skunk cabbage. This plant grows in wetlands and bogs and produces a pungent scent that attracts flies as well as beetles and other insects. The skunk cabbage is also an important food source for animals such as deer and bears.

3. Sundew (Drosera spp.)

The sundew is a carnivorous plant that feeds on insects, including flies. It has sticky leaves that trap insects and then digest them. While this might sound gruesome, the sundew is actually quite fascinating to watch and can be a great conversation er in your garden.

4. Wild Ginger (Asarum spp.)

Wild ginger is a low-growing plant that produces a strong scent that attracts flies. It's also an important food source for many types of wildlife, including birds and small mammals. In addition to attracting flies, wild ginger is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.

5. Dutchman's Pipe (Aristolochia spp.)

The Dutchman's pipe is another type of plant that attracts flies with its foul odor. The flower looks like a curved pipe, which is how it got its name. It's also an important food source for many types of butterflies and moths.

Other Flowers That Attract Flies

While these are some of the most common flowers that attract flies, there are many other types of plants that also do so. Here are a few more to consider:

• Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
• Yarrow (Achillea spp.)
• Joe-Pye Weed (Eupatorium spp.)
• Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.)

Tips for Attracting Flies to Your Garden

If you want to attract more flies to your garden, here are a few tips:

• Plant flowers that produce a strong scent or odor.
• Make sure there is plenty of organic matter in your soil to provide food for the flies.
• Provide a source of water, such as a birdbath or small pond.
• Avoid using pesticides and other chemicals that can harm the flies.

FAQs

Q: Are all types of flies good for my garden?

A:

No, not all types of flies are beneficial for your garden. Some types, such as fruit flies and house flies, can actually be pests and cause damage to your plants. It's important to do your research and make sure you're attracting the right types of flies.

Q: Will having flowers that attract flies make my garden smell bad?

A:

Some of the flowers that attract flies, such as the corpse flower and skunk cabbage, do produce a strong odor. However, not all flowers that attract flies have a noticeable scent. If you're concerned about the smell, you can choose plants that have a milder odor.

Q: Can I use flowers that attract flies to control pests?

A:

Yes, some types of flies are natural predators for other pests, such as aphids and mites. By attracting these types of flies to your garden, you can help to control pest populations without the use of pesticides.

Q: Do I need to do anything special to attract flies to my garden?

A:

In general, flies are attracted to flowers that produce a strong scent or odor. However, there are a few things you can do to make your garden more attractive to them, such as providing a source of water and avoiding the use of pesticides.

Q: Are there any downsides to having flowers that attract flies?

A:

While there are many benefits to having flowers that attract flies, there are also a few potential downsides. For example, some types of flies can be pests and cause damage to your plants. Additionally, some people might find the strong odors produced by these plants unpleasant. It's important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether or not to add them to your garden.


Flowers that attract flies might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a beautiful garden, but they can actually be quite beneficial. Whether you're looking to improve pollination, control pests, or simply add a unique touch to your garden, there are many types of flowers that are sure to attract flies. By following the tips and suggestions in this article, you'll be well on your way to creating a thriving, fly-friendly garden.