What Flowers Do Spiders Like?

Umbels

• Flowers that develop in umbrella-like clusters are ideal for beneficial insects like spiders because they offer both pollen and nectar that attract their prey. Types of flowers that belong to this category include angelica, fennel, yarrow and Queen Anne's lace. Carraway, dill and buckwheat plants also produce umbels and these plants do well in the garden. Consider using these plants as companion plants to some of your flowers that are overrun with pests. These species are perfect companion plants because they typically do not take up a great deal of space.

Spikes

• Flowers that grow in spike-like formations are great for attracting beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and spiders. Flowers that fall into this category include lavender, hyssop and goldenrod. To use these flowers in your garden to attract spiders, place them throughout the entire garden rather than in one particular area. Interspersing these flowers among your other plants will not only give your widespread protection against pests but it will also create bursts of color throughout your garden when the flowers are in bloom.

Composites

• Composite flowers are those that have central heads surrounded by a number of rays, or petals, which all originate from the head. Some species of composite flowers include coneflowers, sunflowers, cosmos and asters. One of the most commonly recognized composite flowers is the daisy, which can be a great addition to any garden. Composite flowers provide spiders with a place to perch while awaiting the arrival of prey and the stems provide a good location for building webs.

Cups

• Flowers that produce small, almost flat cups are ideal for beneficial insects including spiders because they provide a platform on which to build webs and to lie in wait for prey. Flowers that belong to this category include primroses and buttercups. Other cup-shaped flowers are deep and almost tunnel-like, providing an excellent place for spiders to hide. Flowers exhibiting this structure include tulips, camellia and lilies. Any of these flowers would make a beautiful and colorful addition to the home garden.