Hummingbird Favorite Plants: A Guide to Attracting These Beautiful Birds

The Importance of Hummingbirds in Our Ecosystem

Hummingbirds are known for their colorful feathers, unique flying abilities, and their love for sweet nectar. But did you know that these tiny birds play an important role in our ecosystem? As pollinators, they help to fertilize plants, which leads to the production of many fruits and vegetables we enjoy.

Unfortunately, due to habitat loss and other environmental factors, hummingbirds are becoming less common in some areas. One way to help these birds is by planting flowers and plants that appeal to them.

In this guide, we'll explore some of the best plants to attract hummingbirds to your garden. From vibrant flowers to fruit-bearing trees, we have everything you need to create a hummingbird haven in your backyard.

Top 15 Plants That Attract Hummingbirds

1. Salvia

Salvia is a favorite among hummingbirds, thanks to its brightly colored flowers and long blooming season. With over 900 species to choose from, there is a salvia plant for every garden.

How to Grow Salvia

Salvia prefers well-drained soil and full sun or partial shade. Plant seeds or seedlings in early spring, and water regularly. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.

2. Cardinal Flower

The cardinal flower is a North American native plant that produces stunning red blooms that attract hummingbirds from miles away.

How to Grow Cardinal Flower

Cardinal flowers prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Plant seeds or seedlings in early spring, and water regularly.

3. Bee Balm

Bee balm, also known as wild bergamot, produces bright red, pink, or purple flowers that are irresistible to hummingbirds.

How to Grow Bee Balm

Bee balm prefers sunny or partially shaded areas and well-drained soil. Plant seeds or seedlings in the spring or fall, and water regularly.

4. Trumpet Vine

Trumpet vine is a fast-growing vine that produces vibrant orange or red flowers that hummingbirds love.

How to Grow Trumpet Vine

Trumpet vine prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring or fall, and provide support for the vine to climb on.

5. Butterfly Bush

Butterfly bush produces long, slender flowers that come in a variety of colors and attract both butterflies and hummingbirds.

How to Grow Butterfly Bush

Butterfly bush prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring or fall, and prune regularly to encourage more blooms.

6. Hollyhock

Hollyhocks produce tall spikes of colorful flowers that are perfect for attracting hummingbirds.

How to Grow Hollyhock

Hollyhocks prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant seeds or seedlings in early spring, and water regularly.

7. Fuchsia

Fuchsia plants produce stunning, pendulous flowers that come in a range of colors and shapes to attract hummingbirds.

How to Grow Fuchsia

Fuchsia plants prefer partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring, and water regularly.

8. Lantana

Lantana produces clusters of small flowers that are perfect for attracting hummingbirds.

How to Grow Lantana

Lantana prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring, and water regularly.

9. Red Hot Poker

Red hot poker produces spikes of brightly colored flowers that are popular with hummingbirds.

How to Grow Red Hot Poker

Red hot poker prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring or late fall, and water regularly.

10. Penstemon

Penstemon produces long, tubular flowers that are perfect for hummingbirds to feed on.

How to Grow Penstemon

Penstemon prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant seeds or seedlings in early spring, and water regularly.

11. Columbine

Columbine produces unique, bell-shaped flowers that come in a range of colors and are known to attract hummingbirds.

How to Grow Columbine

Columbine prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring, and water regularly.

12. Agastache

Agastache, also known as hyssop or anise hyssop, produces spikes of fragrant flowers that appeal to both hummingbirds and bees.

How to Grow Agastache

Agastache prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring, and water regularly.

13. Petunia

Petunias produce masses of brightly colored flowers that are perfect for attracting hummingbirds.

How to Grow Petunia

Petunias prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant seeds or seedlings in early spring, and water regularly.

14. Zinnia

Zinnias come in a range of colors and produce masses of blooms that are popular with hummingbirds.

How to Grow Zinnia

Zinnias prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant seeds or seedlings in early spring or late fall, and water regularly.

15. Fruit Trees

Fruit trees such as apple, pear, and cherry produce sweet nectar that hummingbirds love, in addition to their fruit.

How to Grow Fruit Trees

Fruit trees require full sun and well-drained soil. Plant in early spring, and water regularly.

Additional Tips for Attracting Hummingbirds

Aside from planting the right flowers and plants, there are other things you can do to attract hummingbirds to your garden. Here are some additional tips:

Provide Water Sources

Hummingbirds need water to drink and bathe in. Consider adding a birdbath or fountain to your garden.

Avoid Pesticides

Pesticides can harm hummingbirds and other pollinators, so avoid using them in your garden.

Plant in Clusters

Planting flowers in clusters will make them easier for hummingbirds to find and feed on.

Provide Shelter

Hummingbirds need shelter from predators and bad weather. Consider planting shrubs or trees in your garden to provide cover.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hummingbirds and Plants

Q: How do I know if a plant is suitable for hummingbirds?

A: Look for plants with brightly colored, tubular flowers that are rich in nectar.

Q: When is the best time to plant hummingbird-friendly plants?

A: The best time to plant is in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.

Q: Do hummingbirds only eat nectar?

A: No, hummingbirds also eat insects and spiders for protein.

Q: How can I attract hummingbirds to my feeder?

A: Use a feeder that has red accents or add a red ribbon near the feeder. Change the nectar frequently and keep the feeder clean.

Q: How can I tell if a hummingbird has visited my garden?

A: Look for hovering birds with wings that appear to be a blur. You may also hear their distinctive buzzing sound.