Use Color as One Clue
Pollen color is most useful when it narrows a list of possibilities. It should not be treated as a stand-alone identification result.
Compare color with bloom timing, plant abundance, location, weather, and whether bees are visiting the suspected plant.
Why Color Varies
Pollen can darken or lighten with age, moisture, mixed loads, and lighting. Digital screens also display colors differently.
Plants Mentioned in This Guide
Dandelion
Red and rust / Spring to Fall / Zone 3 - 9
Willow
Orange and amber / Spring / Zone 2 - 9
Maple
Yellow and gold / Spring / Zone 3 - 9
Red & White Clover
Orange and amber / Summer / Zone 3 - 9
Goldenrod
Orange and amber / Summer to Fall / Zone 2 - 8
Sunflower
Orange and amber / Summer to Fall / Zone 2 - 11