Best Perennials for Hummingbirds - A Guide

The Importance of Choosing Perennials for Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that have captured the attention and imagination of people for generations. With their vibrant colors, delicate wings, and ability to hover in mid-air, they are among the most beloved birds in the world.

One way to attract hummingbirds to your garden is to plant perennials that they love. Perennial plants are those that come back year after year, making them a great investment for any gardener who wants to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape.

In this guide, we will explore some of the best perennials for hummingbirds and provide tips on how to care for them. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just ing out, there's something here for everyone!

Agastache

Overview

Agastache, also known as hyssop, is a genus of perennial herbs that are native to North America and Asia. They have tall spikes of small flowers that are rich in nectar, making them a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Agastache prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms throughout the season.

Bee Balm

Overview

Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a popular perennial that is native to North America. It has showy flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, and white that attract both hummingbirds and bees.

Care

Bee balm prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Columbine

Overview

Columbine is a genus of perennial plants that are native to North America and Europe. They have delicate flowers in shades of red, yellow, blue, and purple that are shaped like bells.

Care

Columbine prefers part shade and well-drained soil. They do not tolerate drought well, so be sure to water regularly during dry spells. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Delphinium

Overview

Delphinium, also known as larkspur, is a genus of perennials that are native to Europe and Asia. They have tall spikes of flowers in shades of blue, pink, white, and purple that are a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Delphinium prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They require regular watering and benefit from a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Echinacea

Overview

Echinacea, also known as coneflower, is a genus of perennials that are native to North America. They have daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white that are a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies.

Care

Echinacea prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Fuchsia

Overview

Fuchsia is a genus of flowering plants that are native to South America. They have pendulous flowers in shades of red, pink, and purple that are a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Fuchsia prefers part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells and fertilize monthly during the growing season. Pinch back new growth to promote bushiness.

Geranium

Overview

Geranium, also known as cranesbill, is a genus of perennials that are native to Europe and Asia. They have showy flowers in shades of pink, purple, and blue that attract hummingbirds and bees.

Care

Geranium prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers throughout the season.

Honeysuckle

Overview

Honeysuckle is a genus of flowering plants that are native to Europe and Asia. They have fragrant flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, and red that are a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Honeysuckle prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells and fertilize monthly during the growing season. Prune back after flowering to promote bushiness.

Hosta

Overview

Hosta is a genus of perennials that are native to Asia. They have large, showy leaves and spikes of small flowers in shades of white and lavender that attract hummingbirds and bees.

Care

Hosta prefers part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells and fertilize monthly during the growing season. Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding.

Liatris

Overview

Liatris, also known as blazing star or gayfeather, is a genus of perennials that are native to North America. They have tall spikes of flowers in shades of purple and white that are a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies.

Care

Liatris prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Milkweed

Overview

Milkweed is a genus of perennials that are native to North America. They have clusters of small flowers in shades of pink, orange, and white that are a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies.

Care

Milkweed prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers and prevent self-seeding.

Penstemon

Overview

Penstemon is a genus of perennials that are native to North America. They have spikes of tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, and blue that are a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Penstemon prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Phlox

Overview

Phlox is a genus of perennials that are native to North America. They have showy flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white that attract both hummingbirds and butterflies.

Care

Phlox prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during dry spells and deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers throughout the season.

Rudbeckia

Overview

Rudbeckia, also known as black-eyed Susan, is a genus of perennials that are native to North America. They have daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red that are a favorite of hummingbirds and bees.

Care

Rudbeckia prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

Salvia

Overview

Salvia is a large genus of perennials that are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. They have spikes of tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and red that are a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Salvia prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers throughout the season.

Sedum

Overview

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a genus of succulent perennials that are native to Europe and Asia. They have small clusters of flowers in shades of pink, red, and white that are a favorite of hummingbirds.

Care

Sedum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers and prevent self-seeding.

Attracting hummingbirds to your garden can be a rewarding experience, and planting perennials that they love is a great way to do it. By choosing plants like agastache, bee balm, and fuchsia, you can create a beautiful landscape that is both sustainable and beneficial for wildlife.

FAQs

1. How do I attract hummingbirds to my garden?

To attract hummingbirds to your garden, plant perennials that are rich in nectar and have brightly colored flowers. Provide a source of water, such as a bird bath or fountain, and avoid using pesticides and herbicides.

2. When is the best time to plant perennials for hummingbirds?

The best time to plant perennials for hummingbirds is in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler and there is more moisture in the soil. This will give the plants time to establish roots before the hot summer weather arrives.

3. How do I care for perennials for hummingbirds?

Perennials for hummingbirds require regular watering, deadheading of spent flowers, and occasional fertilization. They also benefit from a layer of mulch to retain moisture in the soil.

4. Can I plant annuals for hummingbirds instead of perennials?

Absolutely! Annuals like petunias, zinnias, and begonias are also great choices for attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Just be aware that they will need to be replanted each year.

5. How do I prevent pests and diseases in my hummingbird garden?

To prevent pests and diseases in your hummingbird garden, avoid using pesticides and herbicides that can harm beneficial insects and birds. Instead, use natural methods like handpicking pests or spraying with an organic insecticide. Keep an eye out for signs of disease, like yellowing leaves or wilting, and remove affected plants promptly.