Vines that Attract Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that are known for their tiny size, incredible speed, and vibrant colors. As they flit from flower to flower, they play an important role in pollinating plants and helping them to thrive. But did you know that hummingbirds are also attracted to certain types of vines? In this blog post, we will explore some of the best vines that you can plant to attract hummingbirds to your garden.

The Best Vines for Hummingbirds

1. Trumpet Vine

Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) is a popular choice for attracting hummingbirds because of its bright orange-red flowers. These tubular flowers are the perfect shape for hummingbirds to feed on, and they are rich in nectar. Trumpet vine is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 30 feet in height. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

How to Grow Trumpet Vine

To grow trumpet vine, plant it in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the first year to help it establish roots. After that, it should only need occasional watering. Prune it in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.

2. Coral Honeysuckle

Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is a native vine that produces clusters of tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, and orange. These flowers are a favorite of hummingbirds, who are attracted to their bright color and sweet nectar. Coral honeysuckle is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 20 feet in height. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

How to Grow Coral Honeysuckle

To grow coral honeysuckle, plant it in a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the first year to help it establish roots. After that, it should only need occasional watering. Prune it in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.

3. Crossvine

Crossvine (Bignonia capreolata) is another native vine that produces clusters of tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These flowers are similar in shape to trumpet vine flowers, but they are smaller and more delicate. Crossvine is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 50 feet in height. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

How to Grow Crossvine

To grow crossvine, plant it in a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the first year to help it establish roots. After that, it should only need occasional watering. Prune it in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.

4. Passionflower

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is a unique vine that produces showy flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white. These flowers are complex, with multiple layers of petals and stamens. They are also rich in nectar, making them a favorite of hummingbirds. Passionflower is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 20 feet in height. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

How to Grow Passionflower

To grow passionflower, plant it in a sunny or partially shaded location with well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the first year to help it establish roots. After that, it should only need occasional watering. Prune it in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.

5. Wisteria

Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis) is a classic vine that produces cascades of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. While wisteria is not known for attracting hummingbirds, it can be a valuable food source for them during times when other nectar sources are scarce. Wisteria is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 30 feet in height. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

How to Grow Wisteria

To grow wisteria, plant it in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Water it regularly during the first year to help it establish roots. After that, it should only need occasional watering. Prune it in late winter or early spring to control its size and shape.


In planting vines that attract hummingbirds is a great way to add beauty and interest to your garden while also providing food for these fascinating creatures. Trumpet vine, coral honeysuckle, crossvine, passionflower, and wisteria are all excellent choices for hummingbird-friendly vines. By planting these vines and taking care of them properly, you can create a welcoming habitat for hummingbirds in your own backyard.

FAQs

Q: How do I attract hummingbirds to my garden?

A: Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, especially red, orange, and pink. Planting flowers and vines with these colors can help to attract them. They are also attracted to nectar-rich plants, so be sure to plant plenty of those.

Q: How often should I water my hummingbird-friendly vines?

A: During the first year, your vines will need regular watering to help them establish roots. After that, they should only need occasional watering during times of drought or extreme heat.

Q: Can I grow these vines in containers?

A: Yes, you can grow most of these vines in containers as long as the containers are large enough and have good drainage. Be sure to choose a sunny location and water them regularly.

Q: How do I prune my hummingbird-friendly vines?

A: Pruning should be in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use sharp, clean tools and make cuts just above a leaf node or bud.

Q: Are these vines harmful to hummingbirds?

A: No, these vines are not harmful to hummingbirds. In fact, they are an important food source for them.