If you want to create a beautiful garden that attracts hummingbirds, you need to plant the right flowers. These tiny birds are drawn to brightly-colored blooms that provide them with a rich source of nectar. Whether you have a small backyard garden or a large outdoor space, there are some flowers that are sure to attract hummingbirds and bring life to your yard.
One of the best flowers to attract hummingbirds is the cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis). This native plant of the United States grows tall with vibrant red flowers that hummingbirds can’t resist. Another popular option is the salvia species, also known as sage. With its long flowering season from late spring to mid-summer, salvia provides a continuous source of nectar for visiting hummingbirds. Some varieties even self-seed, making them a low-maintenance option for your garden.
Another favorite flower among hummingbirds is the bee balm (Monarda). With its bright pink, red, or blue flowers, bee balm is not only attractive to hummingbirds but also to bees and butterflies. This versatile plant can grow both in the ground and in containers, making it a great addition to any garden.
When planting flowers for hummingbirds, it’s important to remember to provide them with both food and shelter. Hummingbirds need a variety of sources for nutrients and energy, so it’s a good idea to plant a mix of annuals and perennials. Some other flowers that hummingbirds love include the trumpet vine, honeysuckle, and columbine. By providing a variety of flowers that bloom at different times throughout the season, you can keep hummingbirds coming back to your garden year after year.
In addition to flowers, hummingbirds also need places to rest and build their nests. You can provide privacy and protection for these tiny birds by planting shrubs and trees with dense foliage. They will appreciate having a safe place to rest between feedings.
In conclusion, attracting hummingbirds to your garden is both easy and rewarding. By planting a variety of flowering plants that provide a rich source of nectar, you can create a habitat that will attract these beautiful and energetic birds. Not only will you get to enjoy their vibrant colors and acrobatic flight, but you will also play a part in supporting their population and ensuring their survival.
How to choose flowers that attract hummingbirds
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, planting flowers that produce nectar is essential. Hummingbirds mainly feed on nectar, a sweet liquid found in the flowers. It is important to note that hummingbirds have a high metabolism and need to consume a significant amount of nectar to sustain their energy levels.
When selecting flowers to attract hummingbirds, you should focus on those that produce nectar. Some flowers may have beautiful blooms but produce little or no nectar, so they may not be as effective at attracting hummingbirds.
The importance of native flowers
Native flowers are a great choice when it comes to attracting hummingbirds. Native flowers have evolved to grow well in their specific region, and as a result, they often produce nectar that hummingbirds are familiar with. Native flowers also provide a source of food for other native pollinators, making them an excellent addition to any garden.
Selecting flowers with long blooming season
Hummingbirds have a long migration season, and they need to refuel along the way. By planting flowers that bloom from early spring until late fall, you can provide a continuous food source for hummingbirds throughout their migration journey. Some flowers that have a long blooming season and attract hummingbirds include sage, salvia, and mint.
Consider the height and structure of the flowers
Hummingbirds are small birds, so they prefer flowers that are at a height they can easily reach. Flowers with long stems and tubular-shaped blossoms are perfect for attracting hummingbirds. Scarlet sage, also known as salvia, is a popular choice as it has vibrant red flowers that hummingbirds find irresistible.
Choose a variety of flowers
Hummingbirds are attracted to a variety of flower colors, so it’s a good idea to have a mix of colors in your yard. Flowers that come in shades of red, orange, pink, and purple are especially attractive to hummingbirds. By selecting a variety of flowering plants, you can create a visually appealing yard while also attracting hummingbirds.
Planting flowers that self-seed
If you’re looking for low-maintenance flowers that will come back year after year, consider planting species that self-seed. These flowers drop their seeds, and new plants will grow in the same area, creating a natural and self-sustaining habitat for both hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Provide privacy and shelter
Hummingbirds are attracted to gardens that provide privacy and shelter. By planting flowers and shrubs that have dense foliage or have a layered structure, you can create a safe space for hummingbirds to rest and seek refuge.
Additional tips
- Make sure to provide fresh and clean water sources for hummingbirds to drink and bathe.
- Consider adding a hummingbird feeder as an additional food source.
- Regularly prune and care for your flowers to ensure they stay healthy and continue to produce nectar.
- Check with your local USDA extension office or gardening experts for information on the best flowers to attract hummingbirds in your specific region.
By following these tips, you can create a hummingbird-friendly yard that will attract these beautiful birds and provide them with the nectar and nutrients they need to thrive.
1 Beardtongue – penstemon
One of the top flowers to attract hummingbirds to your yard is the beardtongue, also known as penstemon. This long-blooming plant belongs to the mint family and comes in a variety of colors.
Beardtongue provides a valuable source of nectar for hummingbirds, which rely on these brightly-colored flowers for energy. Hummingbirds have long beaks that allow them to reach deep into the tubular blooms of the penstemon plant.
This native American plant is well-suited to both outdoor gardens and containers. It grows in a variety of soil types and is relatively low maintenance. It is known to self-seed, so once planted, it can fill your yard with beautiful blooms year after year.
Beardtongue typically blooms from early summer through July, attracting not only hummingbirds but also bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its scarlet, blue, or pink flowers add a splash of color to any yard.
Beardtongue can grow up to 3 feet in height, making it a great choice for filling in gaps or providing privacy in your yard. It is also a great option for attracting hummingbirds to your yard, as these birds are attracted to taller plants where they can perch and rest.
If you’re interested in attracting hummingbirds to your yard, planting beardtongue is a great step. The Audubon Society suggests planting a variety of flowers that bloom at different times to keep hummingbirds happy and visiting your yard throughout the year.
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Published by Stephanie on January 15, 2023
2 Bee balm – monarda
The bee balm, also known as monarda, is a member of the mint family. This little flower explains its popularity among hummingbirds. The USDA has published a long list of bee balm varieties that attract these tiny birds.
In the United States, Audubon suggests planting scarlet bee balm, as it is well-loved by hummingbirds. Blue and pink monarda are also favorites, as they provide a beautiful contrast to the scarlet varieties.
Care for bee balm is relatively easy. It can be grown both as an annual and a perennial, depending on the variety. The flowers bloom from late spring through late summer, providing a long season of nectar for visiting hummingbirds.
Bee balm plants can reach a height of up to 4 feet, making them a great addition to gardens and outdoor spaces. They are known to attract not only hummingbirds but also bees and butterflies.
One interesting fact about bee balm is that it can self-seed, meaning that it will produce new plants without the need for additional planting. This can be a helpful trait for those who want to fill their yard with these lovely flowers.
If you’re looking to attract hummingbirds to your yard, consider planting bee balm. These vibrant and brightly-colored flowers will not only make your outdoor space look beautiful but also provide a food source for these amazing birds.
3 Blue lobelia – Lobelia siphilitica
Blue lobelia, also known as Lobelia siphilitica, is a stunning flowering plant that is popular among gardeners for its vibrant blue blooms. There are several varieties of blue lobelia, with the most common one being the Lobelia siphilitica.
The name “blue lobelia” is derived from the plant’s delicate blue flowers, which attract hummingbirds with their bright colors. With long, tubular blooms, blue lobelia is well-suited for the hummingbirds’ beaks and their feeding habits.
If you’re looking to attract hummingbirds to your yard, planting blue lobelia is a great choice. This flowering plant blooms from mid-summer through fall, making it a beautiful addition to any garden. Blue lobelia is an annual in most states, but it can self-seed and come back year after year.
Blue lobelia grows to a height of 2-3 feet and has slender stems that hold the bright blue flowers. It is also native to the United States, making it an excellent choice for those looking to create native gardens.
According to the USDA, blue lobelia is a favorite of hummingbirds and various bird species, including the cardinal. Hummingbirds are attracted to the bright blue flowers because they contain high levels of nectar, which provides them with the energy they need to keep moving.
Blue lobelia is easy to grow and care for in your yard. It prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. It can also tolerate some frost, which means it can be grown in colder climates as well.
To attract hummingbirds to your blue lobelia, make sure to keep the flowers properly watered and fertilized. Hummingbirds are attracted to the flowers with the highest nectar content, so it’s important to provide them with the nutrients they need.
Blue lobelia can be planted alongside other hummingbird-friendly flowers, such as salvia and strawberry sage, to fill your yard with brightly-colored blooms that will keep hummingbirds happy all season long.
In conclusion, blue lobelia is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts hummingbirds to your yard. With its vibrant blue flowers and tall stems, it adds a pop of color to any garden. So, if you’re looking to attract hummingbirds to your yard, consider planting blue lobelia.
4 Cardinal flower
The Cardinal flower, also known by its scientific name Lobelia cardinalis, is a native perennial flowering plant that attracts hummingbirds with its brightly-colored flowers. This plant is called Cardinal flower because its scarlet red flowers resemble the red robes worn by cardinals in the Catholic Church.
The Cardinal flower can grow up to 3 feet in height and is typically found in wet areas such as marshes, meadows, and along stream banks. It blooms from mid-summer to late fall and is often seen in gardens and landscapes as a beautiful addition.
Hummingbirds are attracted to the Cardinal flower because of its nectar-rich blooms. The flowers of this plant are tubular in shape, making them a perfect fit for the long, slender beaks of hummingbirds. The vibrant red color of the flowers also makes them highly visible to the birds.
Cardinal flowers can also self-seed, meaning they will spread on their own in the right conditions. This makes them a low-maintenance option for gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds to their yards. They can be grown as an annual in colder states or as a perennial in warmer states.
According to Audubon, the Cardinal flower is a favorite among hummingbirds and is considered one of the best native plants for attracting these birds. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) also recommends planting Cardinal flowers to attract hummingbirds to your yard.
To plant Cardinal flowers, choose a location in your yard that receives full or partial sun. They prefer moist soil, so make sure to water them regularly. You can also add organic matter or compost to improve soil drainage and fertility.
Cardinal flowers can be grown from seed or from nursery-grown plants. There are several varieties of Cardinal flower available, including pink and blue ones. It is important to note that the Cardinal flower is a member of the Lobelia family, which includes both annual and perennial varieties.
In addition to attracting hummingbirds, the Cardinal flower provides a pop of color and adds a touch of beauty to any garden. By planting this native flowering plant, you can create an outdoor sanctuary for both birds and yourself.
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5 Columbine – aquilegia
The Columbine, or aquilegia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This plant is known for its unique and delicate flowers that attract hummingbirds.
There are many different varieties of Columbine, with some being native to the United States. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, yellow, pink, purple, and blue. Their shape is reminiscent of a tiny bell or a strawberry, with long spurs that contain nectar, making them particularly attractive to hummingbirds.
Columbines are typically grown outdoors and can be planted in your yard or garden. They can also be grown in pots or containers, making them a versatile plant for any outdoor space.
This plant is known for its ability to attract hummingbirds, as their long beaks are perfectly suited for extracting nectar from the Columbine’s flowers. Stephanie Shimp, an Audubon United States annual report designer, explains that Columbines are among the most visited flowers by hummingbirds.
One of the most popular varieties of Columbine is the “Rocky Mountain Columbine,” which has beautiful purple and white flowers. This variety can grow up to 2 feet in height and blooms from late spring through mid-summer. It is native to the United States and can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 3-7.
Another variety, the “Crimson Columbine,” has scarlet and yellow flowers and is a favorite among hummingbirds. This variety can grow up to 3 feet in height and blooms from late spring through early summer.
Growing Columbines is relatively easy, as they are adaptable to a variety of soil types and grow well in both full sun and partial shade. They require regular watering, especially in dry periods, to ensure that they receive enough nutrients and moisture.
If you’re interested in attracting hummingbirds to your yard, planting Columbines is a great way to do so. These beautiful flowers not only add a pop of color to your outdoor space but also provide a valuable source of nectar for hummingbirds. So why not create a happy and vibrant environment for these amazing birds by adding some Columbines to your garden?
6 Coral honeysuckle – Lonicera sempervirens
The coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is a beautiful flowering vine that attracts hummingbirds to your yard. As part of the honeysuckle family, it is native to the United States and grows well in outdoor gardens.
This variety of honeysuckle can reach a height of up to 20 feet, making it one of the most popular choices for attracting hummingbirds. It produces brightly-colored tubular flowers that bloom from mid-summer through frost, providing a long-lasting source of nectar for the birds.
Hummingbirds are drawn to the coral honeysuckle’s red-orange, scarlet blossoms, as they are rich in nectar and easy for the birds to access with their long, slender beaks. The flowers also provide an important source of energy and nutrients for the hummingbirds, who rely on nectar to fuel their fast-paced flight.
In addition to attracting hummingbirds, the coral honeysuckle also adds beauty to your yard. Its vibrant flowers can be enjoyed by both humans and birds alike, and its climbing stems make it a great choice for trellises, fences, or other vertical structures.
One of the advantages of growing coral honeysuckle is that it can self-seed, meaning it will produce new plants without much effort on your part. If you have limited space or are looking for ideas to fill your yard with hummingbird-friendly flowers, this is a plant to consider.
To learn more about growing coral honeysuckle and attracting hummingbirds to your yard, there are many sources of information available. Stephanie L. Frost, a published author and gardening expert, offers advice and tips on creating a hummingbird garden. You can also sign up for email newsletters or follow online gardening forums to stay up to date on the latest ideas and advice.
By planting coral honeysuckle in your yard, you can create a beautiful and inviting space for hummingbirds to visit. So why wait? Start attracting these tiny and colorful birds today!
7 Jewelweed – Impatiens capensis
Jewelweed, scientific name Impatiens capensis, is a native flowering plant that attracts hummingbirds to your yard. This bright blue flower is a favorite among the ruby-throated hummingbirds and provides them with a great source of nectar.
There are two varieties of jewelweed – the tall variety, which can reach a height of 5 feet, and the dwarf variety, which stays around 2 feet tall. Both varieties are happy growing in well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade, making them a versatile option for your garden or yard.
Jewelweed self-seeds, meaning that it will come back year after year without much effort on your part. This makes it a low-maintenance option for those who want to attract hummingbirds to their yard without a lot of extra care.
For the best results, plant jewelweed in late spring or early summer. The flowering season typically starts in June and lasts until the first frost, providing a long season of nectar-rich blooms for the visiting hummingbirds.
To create a colorful display in your yard, consider planting jewelweed alongside other brightly-colored flowers like cardinal flower, lobelia, or strawberry mint. This will not only attract a variety of hummingbirds but also add visual interest to your outdoor space.
If you have limited space in your yard, jewelweed can also be grown in containers or hanging baskets. This allows you to enjoy its beautiful blooms and attract hummingbirds even if you only have a small patio or balcony.
For more information on attracting hummingbirds to your yard, check out the latest tips and advice from Audubon or visit the USDA’s website for a list of native plants that hummingbirds love.
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8 Red buckeye – Aesculus pavia
The Red buckeye, also known as Aesculus pavia, is a flowering plant that is loved by hummingbirds. This native plant attracts hummingbirds with its brightly-colored, tube-shaped flowers that are perfect for the birds’ long beaks. The Red buckeye is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 15 feet in height.
Red buckeye plants require minimal care and are a great addition to any yard or garden. They prefer full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. This variety of buckeye is drought-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners. Red buckeyes can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
The Red buckeye blooms in the late spring through early summer, producing clusters of pink to red flowers. These flowers attract not only hummingbirds but also other pollinators like bees and butterflies. After the flowers have aged and fallen off, the plant produces rounded fruits that contain seeds. These fruits can be toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised if planting near children or pets.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to incorporate Red buckeyes into your yard, Stephanie, an Audubon Bird-friendly Communities program associate, suggests planting them under larger trees to provide some privacy or along the edge of a property for a natural barrier. Red buckeyes can also be planted in containers on a patio or deck, as long as they are given enough space to grow and thrive.
Red buckeyes are relatively low-growing plants, with a spread of about 6-12 feet. They can also self-seed, creating new plants in your yard each season. To keep the plants looking their best, regular pruning may be necessary to remove any dead or damaged branches.
| Plant Type | Height | Hardiness Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Small tree or large shrub | Up to 15 feet | Zones 4-8 |
Red buckeyes are beautiful additions to any garden, providing both visual interest and a food source for hummingbirds. Consider planting them alongside other hummingbird favorites such as cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), Texas sage (Salvia coccinea), and blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica) to create a stunning display that will attract these delicate birds year after year.
For more information on attracting hummingbirds to your yard and other bird-friendly gardening tips, be sure to check out the latest articles from Audubon. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the most up-to-date advice and information right in your inbox!
Published on August 10, 2021. Last updated on August 12, 2021. Information sourced from Audubon.org and USDA Plant Database.
9 Scarlet sage – salvia splendens
Scarlet sage, also known as salvia splendens, is an annual flower that is a favorite of hummingbirds. If you are looking to attract these tiny birds to your yard, planting scarlet sage is a great choice.
This vibrant flowering plant not only adds beauty to your yard, but it also provides a source of nectar that hummingbirds love. Scarlet sage flowers have long tubular shapes that are perfect for the hummingbird’s long beaks.
Scarlet sage blooms from late spring through mid-summer, filling your yard with clusters of bright red flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet in height and has attractive green stems and foliage. It is a great addition to both formal and informal gardens.
Planting scarlet sage is quite easy. It can be grown from seeds or transplants and requires little care once established. Scarlet sage is native to the United States and can be found growing in many states. It prefers full sun or light shade and well-drained soil.
If you’re looking to attract hummingbirds to your yard, scarlet sage is a great choice. They will be sure to come and visit these beautiful flowers, and you can enjoy watching them feed on the nectar. Scarlet sage is also a great way to add some color and privacy to your outdoor space.
One thing to note about scarlet sage is that it is an annual flower, which means it will only grow and bloom for one season. However, it does have the ability to self-seed, so you may see new plants pop up the following year.
In addition to scarlet sage, there are other varieties of salvia that are also popular with hummingbirds. Some examples include strawberry sage (salvia darcyi), blue sage (salvia guaranitica), and azure sage (salvia azurea). These varieties all have their unique features, but they all share the ability to attract hummingbirds with their nectar-filled flowers.
10 Petunia
Petunias are beautiful flowering plants that are known to attract hummingbirds. These brightly-colored flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and purple. They are easy to care for and can add a pop of color to any garden or yard.
Native to South America, petunias are annual plants that grow well in most parts of the United States. They can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including full sun or partial shade. Petunias also have the ability to self-seed, meaning they can come back year after year if properly cared for.
When planting petunias, it is important to choose a well-draining soil and to make sure they have plenty of sunlight. They should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist. Deadheading the flowers can also help promote new growth and keep the plants looking their best.
One popular variety of petunia for attracting hummingbirds is the Wave petunia. This type of petunia grows in a spreading form and produces a profusion of flowers throughout the summer. The flowers have a long bloom time, which makes them a favorite of both hummingbirds and gardeners.
According to Stephanie, a hummingbird expert, petunias are a great choice for attracting these tiny birds. “Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly-colored flowers that have a good source of nectar,” she explains. “Petunias fit the bill perfectly with their vibrant colors and sweet nectar.”
Hummingbirds have a high metabolism and need to consume a large amount of nectar to keep their energy levels up. They also rely on the sugar-rich nectar for their primary source of food. By planting petunias in your yard or garden, you are providing a valuable food source for these beautiful birds.
If you’re interested in attracting hummingbirds to your yard, planting petunias is a great idea. Not only will you enjoy their beautiful flowers, but you’ll also have the opportunity to observe these fascinating birds up close. So go ahead and add some petunias to your garden and create a welcoming habitat for hummingbirds!
What flowers attract hummingbirds most
If you want to attract hummingbirds to your yard, planting flowers that bloom throughout the season is a great idea. Stephanie, a hummingbird enthusiast, explains that these tiny birds need a lot of energy to keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle. By providing a variety of flowering plants that bloom at different times, you can keep hummingbirds happy and visiting your yard all season long.
One of the best flowers to attract hummingbirds is the salvia. It is a native plant in the United States and grows well in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. Salvia has brightly-colored flowers that produce a lot of nectar, which is a favorite food for hummingbirds. They are attracted to the long, tubular blooms and will visit them frequently.
Another great flower to attract hummingbirds is the lobelia. This annual plant blooms from mid-summer to frost and its bright red or pink flowers are a favorite among hummingbirds. Lobelia can self-seed, so it’s a good idea to deadhead the flowers to prevent it from spreading too much if you don’t want it to take over your yard.
Strawberry sage is another native plant that attracts hummingbirds. Its beautiful red flowers are a favorite among these birds and they will visit them frequently. Strawberry sage grows well in USDA hardiness zones 5-9 and can be grown as a perennial in these areas.
If you’re looking for more ideas on flowers that attract hummingbirds, there are plenty of resources available online. The National Audubon Society and the Hummingbird Society are two great sources of information on attracting these birds to your yard. They provide advice on planting and growing a variety of flowers that hummingbirds love.
Why include flowers that attract hummingbirds
When planning your garden or yard, it’s important to consider the needs of the birds and animals that live in your area. One popular choice for attracting bird species is to include flowers that hummingbirds are attracted to. There are several reasons why you should consider including these flowers in your garden.
1. Hummingbirds are beautiful and fascinating creatures
Hummingbirds are known for their tiny size and incredible ability to hover in mid-air. Their vibrant feathers and high-speed flight make them a joy to watch in the garden. By planting flowers that attract hummingbirds, you can increase the chances of these delightful creatures visiting your yard.
2. Flowers provide a valuable food source
Hummingbirds primarily feed on nectar, and flowers are an excellent source of this nutrient-rich food. By including flowers that attract hummingbirds in your garden, you are providing a valuable food source for these small birds. This is especially important during times when other food sources may be scarce.
3. Hummingbirds help with pollination
Hummingbirds are efficient pollinators, and including flowers that attract them in your garden can help support local ecosystems. When hummingbirds visit flowers for nectar, they unintentionally transfer pollen from one flower to another, aiding in the fertilization process. This benefits both the plants and the animals that rely on them.
4. Flowers add beauty to your outdoor space
The flowers that attract hummingbirds are not only beneficial for the birds, but they also add beauty to your garden. The vibrant colors and unique shapes of these flowers can create a visually pleasing and inviting environment. Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious yard, these flowers can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space.
5. Planting flowers that attract hummingbirds is easy
Many of the flowers that attract hummingbirds are easy to grow and care for. Some varieties, like lobelia and cardinal flower, are annual plants that provide a burst of color throughout the growing season. Others, like salvia and mint, are perennial plants that come back year after year. With a little knowledge and basic care, you can successfully grow these flowers in your garden.
Conclusion
Including flowers that attract hummingbirds in your garden is a win-win situation. Not only do you create a visually stunning and inviting space, but you also provide a valuable food source for these beautiful creatures. By attracting hummingbirds to your yard, you contribute to the health of local ecosystems and can enjoy the thrill of observing these tiny birds up close. So take the step to include flowers that attract hummingbirds and enjoy the many benefits they bring.