1. Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee Balm is a hummingbird favorite, thanks to its bright, tubular flowers and strong scent. This perennial plant comes in vibrant shades of red, pink, and purple—colors that hummingbirds naturally gravitate toward. Bee Balm blooms in the summer, offering a consistent nectar source during peak hummingbird season. Not only does it attract hummingbirds, but it also brings in butterflies and bees, making it a pollinator magnet. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil.
It grows well in most North American gardens and can be used in both borders and wildflower plots. To keep the blooms coming and encourage more hummingbird visits, deadhead the flowers regularly. Bee Balm also has fragrant foliage and is known for its resistance to deer and rabbits. Plant it near a window or patio to enjoy an up-close view of visiting hummingbirds as they dart from flower to flower.
2. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
Trumpet Vine, also known as hummingbird vine, is almost tailor-made for attracting these fast-moving birds. The plant’s large, trumpet-shaped orange or red flowers are perfectly suited for a hummingbird’s long beak and tongue. It blooms heavily during summer and into early fall, providing a steady nectar supply when many other flowers begin to fade. A fast-growing and aggressive climber, trumpet vine thrives in full sun and can scale trellises, arbors, fences, or walls.
However, it does require some maintenance to keep it from taking over your garden. Prune it back annually to control growth and encourage fresh blooms. Because of its vigorous nature, it’s best planted away from delicate or slower-growing plants. Despite this, the rewards are immense: Trumpet vine turns any backyard into a hummingbird hotspot. It’s also drought-tolerant once established and performs well in a variety of soil types.
3. Salvia (Sage)
Salvia is a diverse genus that includes both perennial and annual varieties, many of which are irresistible to hummingbirds. With their long spikes of tubular blooms in colors like red, blue, purple, and pink, Salvias are like a neon sign for nectar-loving birds. One of the top choices is Red Salvia (Salvia splendens) for its bright red flowers, but other varieties like Black and Blue Salvia (Salvia guaranitica) are equally effective.
These plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for borders, containers, or as accent plants. Many Salvias are drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and bloom from late spring through fall, offering months of hummingbird attraction. Regular deadheading will promote more flowers and keep the plant looking tidy. As a bonus, Salvias are also known for attracting butterflies and bees, making them an excellent all-around pollinator plant.
4. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
The Cardinal Flower offers a stunning splash of scarlet red that’s practically magnetic to hummingbirds. This native North American plant thrives in moist environments like the edges of ponds, streams, and rain gardens, making it a great choice if you have wet soil. Its flowers are tall spikes with multiple tubular blooms that are perfect for hummingbird feeding. Unlike some plants that need full sun, Cardinal Flower does well in partial shade, giving you more flexibility in where you plant it.
It blooms in late summer, just as hummingbirds are fueling up for migration. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry weather, to maintain a healthy plant. Because it’s a short-lived perennial, consider allowing it to self-seed or replanting every few years. The Cardinal Flower’s intense red hue and nectar-rich blossoms make it one of the most effective flowers for drawing hummingbirds into your yard.
5. Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
Columbine is a charming woodland perennial with delicate, nodding flowers that are uniquely designed for hummingbird feeding. Its long spurs hold nectar deep inside, encouraging hummingbirds to hover as they sip. Native to North America, the Eastern Red Columbine is particularly known for attracting hummingbirds with its red and yellow blossoms. Columbine blooms in spring, providing an early nectar source when hummingbirds are just returning from migration.
It prefers partial shade and well-drained soil, making it perfect for woodland or shade gardens. Columbine also reseeds readily, helping it return year after year. While it attracts hummingbirds, it’s also resistant to deer and rabbits, a big plus for many gardeners. Deadheading spent blooms can extend the flowering period, and a light mulch will keep the roots cool in summer. Its airy structure adds a whimsical, natural look to your garden while drawing in these energetic visitors.
6. Zinnias
Zinnias are an easy-to-grow annual that’s as colorful as it is functional. With bright flowers in a rainbow of hues—particularly red, orange, and pink—Zinnias are irresistible to hummingbirds. Their open, daisy-like shape offers easy access to nectar, especially for young or newly arrived hummingbirds looking for a quick energy boost. Zinnias thrive in full sun and warm weather, and they bloom non-stop from summer until the first frost.
Plant them in clusters or mass plantings for the most visual impact and bird activity. They do best in well-drained soil and require regular watering during dry spells. One of their best qualities is how easy they are to grow from seed, making them a budget-friendly addition to any hummingbird garden. Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooms. Zinnias also attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, creating a lively, biodiverse environment right in your backyard.
7. Fuchsia
Fuchsia’s unique, drooping blossoms in shades of pink, purple, and red are a hummingbird favorite, especially for container gardens and hanging baskets. These exotic-looking flowers are tubular and nectar-rich, making them ideal for feeding hummingbirds. While Fuchsia is typically grown as an annual in cooler climates, it can be perennial in USDA zones 10–11. Fuchsia prefers shady or partially shady locations and consistently moist soil, which sets it apart from many other sun-loving hummingbird plants.
Because it does well in pots, it’s an excellent choice for patios, balconies, or porch railings—areas where you can enjoy close-up hummingbird sightings. Keep the plant blooming by pinching off spent flowers and feeding it with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks. In hot weather, make sure it doesn’t dry out. With its cascading habit and vibrant flowers, Fuchsia adds elegance and charm while supporting your garden’s hummingbird population.
FAQs
Q1: What colors attract hummingbirds the most?
A: Hummingbirds are most attracted to bright red, orange, and pink flowers, but they will also visit purple and blue blooms, especially if they offer nectar.
Q2: Can I use feeders and plants together to attract more hummingbirds?
A: Absolutely! Using both feeders and plants creates a more inviting environment and ensures a consistent food source throughout the season.
Q3: How can I keep wasps and bees away from hummingbird feeders?
A: Choose feeders with bee guards, avoid yellow accents, and place feeders in shaded areas. Keeping the feeder clean will also reduce insect attraction.
Q4: What time of year should I plant these flowers?
A: Most of these plants can be started in spring after the last frost. Annuals like Zinnias and Fuchsia can be started from seed or purchased as seedlings.
Conclusion
Creating a hummingbird-friendly garden is a beautiful and rewarding way to support wildlife while enjoying the lively activity these birds bring. By planting a variety of flowers like Bee Balm, Trumpet Vine, and Fuchsia, you can offer a reliable nectar source throughout the seasons. These plants not only attract hummingbirds but also enhance your garden’s color, fragrance, and ecological value. With the right plant choices and a little planning, your yard can become a hummingbird haven that delights both birds and humans alike. So grab your gloves, get planting, and prepare for the magical flutter of wings in your own backyard oasis.