Written by Ryley Henninger | CMG Apprentice

As the sun sets and the sky deepens, much of the natural world quiets. Our beloved bees and butterflies begin their rest while another group of pollinators awaken – hello there, moths, bats, beetles, and all the other nocturnal allies. These creatures flutter and hum, pollinating plants as much of the world sleeps.

Moon gardens, spaces designed with pale-colored flowers, silver foliage, and night-blooming or fragrant plants, are more than enchanting places to spend an evening. They are ecological sanctuaries that support the mysterious and essential lives of nighttime pollinators.

Welcome, Nighttime Pollinators!

The praises sung for the bees and butterflies are acts of gratitude for all the important work they do – though, we often forget their just-as-crucial nighttime counterparts. Moths, for example, are primary pollinators for evening primrose, yucca, and other native plants. Certain species of bats play an essential role in pollinating fruit-bearing plants. Even some beetles and flies do their best work in the cool dark hours.

Yet, as light pollution spreads and habitat loss continues, these creatures face increasing threats. According to the University of Illinois Extension, moon gardens can “enhance nighttime biodiversity by attracting pollinators such as hawk moths, which are active after dusk.” By cultivating plants that bloom or share their scent at night, gardeners can support these vital species and restore balance to local ecosystems.

Creating A Moon Garden with Purpose

A moon garden typically features soft, reflective elements that shine in low light. But intentionality is key. When designed with nocturnal pollinators in mind, the garden becomes more than beautiful; it becomes life-giving. Penn State Extension describes these plants as ideal for “supporting pollinators often overlooked, yet vital to nighttime ecosystems.”

Some essential plant choices include:

• Moonflower (Ipomoea alba) – These large, white trumpet-shaped flowers open at dusk and attract sphinx and hawk moths.
• Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis) – Native to many regions, these yellow or pink flowers bloom in the evening and are visited by bees and moths.
• Night-blooming jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum) – Its intoxicating scent attracts moths from long distances.
• Night phlox (Zaluzianskya capensis) – Sometimes called “midnight candy” for its sweet scent.
• Silver-leafed plants, such as lamb’s ear or artemisia, catch the moonlight and offer shelter for insects.
• Phlox-Pale-colored and strong scented varieties are perfect.
• Datura, Jimsonweed- Large, fragrant white blooms that open in late afternoon and nice large foliage. *Note: this plant is poisonous, so caution should be used.

Native Options:

• Yucca glauca-It’s blooms are the only food source for the yucca moth, and they can only be pollinated by this particular moth. A rare example of an obligate mutualistic relationship.
• Tufted Evening Primrose, Oenothera caespitosa-It blooms in the evening and fades out the next day to be replaced by new blooms the next night.
• Desert Four O’Clock, Mirabilis multiflora-bright magenta/purple blooms, a nice spreading habit, and lush green leaves make this plant an afternoon to night charmer.

There are special considerations to be mindful of when bringing your moon garden to life. We encourage ecological intention – it’s more than just choosing pretty flowers. To truly support nighttime pollinators:

• Avoid harsh outdoor lighting, which can confuse moths and disrupt their pollination patterns. Choose soft solar path lights or areas with moonlight only.
• Choose native species whenever possible. These plants and local pollinators have beautifully evolved together, birthing many benefits from better nutritional support and mindful water usage.
• Provide bloom succession so there is nectar available throughout the growing season.
• Add habitat elements, like brush piles, shrubs, or a water dish with pebbles for safe sipping.

In a world often too busy to slow down, moon gardens invite stillness and connection. They not only offer a sensory retreat for us humans, full of sweet smells and silvery petals dancing under starlight, but also a crucial oasis for night-flying pollinators. By planting with the moon in mind, we become stewards of the unseen. Each flower that opens after dusk is an invitation: come, feed, rest, pollinate. And in return, our gardens grow richer, wilder, and more alive.

“As gardeners, we have the power to shape not just beauty but balance. The moon garden is a quiet revolution in bloom.”