10 Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden
Hummingbirds are delightful creatures with their iridescent feathers and unique ability to hover in mid-air. If you’re a nature lover or a gardening enthusiast, attracting hummingbirds to your garden is a great way to invite these charming birds into your backyard. One of the most effective ways to attract hummingbirds is by planting flowers that they love. So, here are ten flowers that will surely bring joy to both you and these enchanting creatures.
1. Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm is a vibrant flower that produces nectar-rich blossoms that hummingbirds find irresistible. Its tubular shape and bright red, pink, or purple colors are specifically suited to attract these tiny birds. Plant bee balm in partial shade to create a stunning display.
2. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
The trumpet vine is well-known for being a hummingbird magnet. With its trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow, this vine is not only visually appealing but also provides a rich source of nectar. Keep in mind that trumpet vine can be invasive, so regular pruning is necessary.
3. Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Salvia flowers are a hummingbird favorite due to their tubular shape and vibrant hues. These flowers come in various colors, including red, purple, pink, and blue. Planting different salvia species ensures a prolonged blooming period, offering a continuous food source for hummingbirds.
4. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
As its name suggests, the cardinal flower boasts vivid red petals that resemble the plumage of a cardinal bird. These flowers provide a generous amount of nectar and are particularly alluring to hummingbirds. To enjoy the sight of these birds zipping around your garden, plant cardinal flowers in wet or damp areas.
5. Columbine (Aquilegia)
Columbines have unique, elongated petals that form a charming bell shape. This flower comes in an array of colors, including red, pink, purple, and yellow. These nectar-filled blooms are not only attractive to hummingbirds but also to bees and butterflies.
6. Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
Penstemon flowers feature long tubular blossoms that are perfectly suited for hummingbirds’ long beaks. These flowers come in various hues, such as pink, purple, red, and orange. Planting penstemon in your garden will create a vibrant and captivating scene.
7. Hollyhock (Alcea rosea)
Hollyhocks are tall, showy flowers that add vertical interest to any garden. Their nectar-rich blossoms attract both hummingbirds and butterflies. With a wide range of colors to choose from, including pink, purple, yellow, and white, hollyhocks can create a breathtaking display in your garden.
8. Lupine (Lupinus)
Lupine flowers offer a beautiful spectacle with their tall spikes adorned with clusters of vibrant blooms in blue, purple, pink, red, or yellow. Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to their sweet nectar. Planting lupines in groups will provide a visual treat for both you and the hummingbirds.
9. Beardtongue (Penstemon barbatus)
Beardtongue, also known as scarlet bugler, produces striking red tubular flowers that are irresistible to hummingbirds. These flowers attract various hummingbird species and provide them with a much-needed source of nectar. Plant beardtongue in well-drained soil for optimal growth.
10. Foxglove (Digitalis)
Foxgloves are stunning flowers that produce tubular blossoms in shades of pink, purple, white, and yellow. Hummingbirds are known to frequent these flowers for their sweet nectar. Keep in mind that foxgloves are poisonous, so exercise caution if you have children or pets in your garden.
In conclusion, attracting hummingbirds to your garden can be achieved by planting a variety of flowers that they adore. By incorporating these ten flowers into your garden design, you’ll create a haven for both you and these charming creatures. So, get your gardening tools ready and prepare to be mesmerized by the sight of hummingbirds in your backyard.
