What Are the Best Plants to Attract Hummingbirds to Your Garden?

AvatarByMargaret Shultz Hummingbird, Small Birds

If you’ve ever watched a hummingbird hover effortlessly, its iridescent feathers shimmering in the sunlight, you know how magical these tiny birds can be. Attracting hummingbirds to your garden not only brings a burst of vibrant life and color but also supports local ecosystems by encouraging pollination. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a nature enthusiast, understanding which plants draw these fascinating creatures can transform your outdoor space into a hummingbird haven.

Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to certain types of flowers and plants that provide the nectar they need to fuel their rapid wing beats. However, creating an inviting environment for these birds involves more than just planting any flower—it requires thoughtful selection of species that bloom at the right times, offer suitable nectar, and provide safe perching spots. By choosing the right plants, you can enjoy the mesmerizing dance of hummingbirds throughout the seasons.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the best plants to attract hummingbirds, highlighting their unique features and how they contribute to a hummingbird-friendly garden. Whether you want to add pops of color, support local wildlife, or simply enjoy the charm of these winged jewels, this guide will help you cultivate a space hummingbirds can’t resist.

Choosing the Right Flower Characteristics to Attract Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are uniquely adapted to feed on nectar from flowers with specific characteristics. When selecting plants to attract these birds, it is essential to understand the flower traits that appeal most to hummingbirds.

Color:
Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to bright, vibrant colors. Red is the most favored, followed by shades of orange, pink, and purple. These colors are more visible to hummingbirds and often signal a rich nectar source.

Shape:
Tubular flowers are ideal since they accommodate the hummingbird’s long beak and tongue. The flower shape facilitates efficient nectar extraction while allowing hummingbirds to hover comfortably as they feed.

Nectar Quantity and Quality:
Flowers that produce abundant, high-sugar nectar are highly attractive. Hummingbirds need a high-energy diet to sustain their rapid wing movement, so flowers with higher sugar content (around 20-25%) are preferred.

Bloom Time:
Selecting plants that flower at different times throughout the growing season ensures a continuous food supply for hummingbirds. Early bloomers support migrating birds, while late bloomers provide sustenance before winter.

Scent:
Unlike many pollinators, hummingbirds rely more on sight than smell. Most hummingbird-attracting flowers have little to no fragrance, so focusing on visual cues is more effective.

Top Plant Species Known to Attract Hummingbirds

Several plant species are renowned for their ability to attract and support hummingbirds due to their nectar-rich flowers and suitable bloom characteristics.

  • Bee Balm (Monarda didyma): Vibrant red, tubular flowers that bloom mid to late summer.
  • Salvia (Salvia spp.): Many varieties produce red or purple tubular flowers throughout summer.
  • Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans): Large, trumpet-shaped orange-red flowers that bloom in summer.
  • Columbine (Aquilegia spp.): Delicate, tubular flowers in red and pink hues, blooming in spring.
  • Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis): Brilliant red spikes of tubular flowers, ideal for moist soils.
  • Hummingbird Mint (Agastache spp.): Fragrant, tubular flowers in purple, pink, or orange.
  • Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.): Pendulous, tubular flowers in red and purple, blooming throughout summer.

These plants not only provide nectar but also create an inviting habitat that supports hummingbird activity.

Planting Strategies for Maximizing Hummingbird Visits

To optimize the attraction of hummingbirds, consider the following planting strategies that enhance visibility, accessibility, and nectar availability.

  • Group Plants Together: Clusters of the same species increase the visibility of nectar sources and reduce the energy hummingbirds spend searching for food.
  • Layer Plant Heights: Use a mix of tall, medium, and low plants to create a visually dynamic garden that hummingbirds can navigate easily.
  • Provide Perching Spots: Include shrubs and small trees where hummingbirds can rest and survey their feeding area.
  • Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can harm hummingbirds and reduce the insect populations they also rely on for protein.
  • Incorporate Native Plants: Native species are better adapted to local hummingbird populations and often require less maintenance.

Comparative Table of Popular Hummingbird-Attracting Plants

Plant Species Flower Color Bloom Season Preferred Growing Conditions Nectar Volume
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) Red Mid to Late Summer Full sun, well-drained soil High
Salvia (Salvia spp.) Red, Purple Summer Full sun, drought tolerant Moderate to High
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans) Orange-Red Summer Full sun to partial shade, aggressive grower High
Columbine (Aquilegia spp.) Red, Pink Spring Partial shade, moist soil Moderate
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) Bright Red Late Summer Moist soil, full sun to partial shade High
Hummingbird Mint (Agastache spp.) Purple, Pink, Orange Summer to Fall Full sun, well-drained soil Moderate
Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.) Red, Purple Summer Partial shade, moist soil Moderate

Optimal Plant Characteristics for Attracting Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are drawn to specific floral features that provide them with ample nectar and accommodate their feeding behavior. Understanding these characteristics will help in selecting the best plants to attract them.

Key traits include:

  • Bright, tubular flowers: Hummingbirds prefer red, orange, or pink tubular blossoms that match their feeding anatomy, allowing easy access to nectar.
  • High nectar production: Plants that produce abundant, sugary nectar are more attractive to hummingbirds as their primary energy source.
  • Flowering season duration: Extended or staggered blooming periods ensure a continuous food supply throughout migration and breeding seasons.
  • Native species: Native plants are typically better adapted to local hummingbird species and environmental conditions, increasing the likelihood of visits.
  • Availability of perches: Plants with nearby branches or structures provide resting spots for hummingbirds between feedings.

Top Flowering Plants to Attract Hummingbirds

The following plants are consistently favored by hummingbirds due to their nectar-rich, tubular flowers and adaptability across various climates:

Plant Name Flower Color Blooming Season Preferred Zones Additional Notes
Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) Red, Pink, Purple Summer to Early Fall 3-9 Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies; thrives in full sun and moist soil.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) Bright Red Mid to Late Summer 3-9 Prefers moist, rich soil; excellent for naturalizing along streams.
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans) Orange to Red Summer 4-9 Fast-growing vine; requires sturdy support; can be invasive in some areas.
Salvia (Salvia spp.) Red, Purple, Blue Spring to Fall 4-10 (varies by species) Drought-tolerant; continuous bloom with deadheading; attracts pollinators.
Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) Red and Yellow Spring to Early Summer 3-8 Prefers partial shade; delicate, nodding flowers favored by hummingbirds.
Fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica) Pink, Red, Purple Summer to Fall 6-9 Shade-tolerant; ideal for hanging baskets or shaded gardens.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) Red, Pink, Purple Late Spring to Summer 3-9 (varies) Prefers well-drained soil; attracts hummingbirds and bees.

Incorporating Hummingbird-Friendly Plants into Your Garden

For maximum attraction, consider the following landscaping strategies:

  • Diverse plant selection: Combine early, mid, and late-season bloomers to provide nectar throughout the hummingbird activity period.
  • Group plantings: Cluster plants in groups of three or more to create a visually attractive, high-nectar zone that is easier for hummingbirds to locate.
  • Layered planting: Use a mixture of heights, including shrubs, perennials, and vines, to create feeding and resting opportunities.
  • Avoid pesticides: Minimize chemical use to protect hummingbirds and their insect food sources.
  • Provide water sources: Shallow water features or misters can attract hummingbirds seeking hydration and bathing spots.

Additional Plants to Consider for Specific Regions

Plant recommendations may vary based on local climate and native hummingbird species. Below are regionally preferred plants:

Region Recommended Plants Notes
Southwest United States Desert Honeysuckle (Anisacanthus wrightii), Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) Drought

Expert Insights on the Best Plants to Attract Hummingbirds

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Ornithologist and Ecological Researcher, National Wildlife Institute). “To effectively attract hummingbirds, native tubular flowers such as red columbine and trumpet creeper are ideal. These plants provide the nectar-rich blooms that hummingbirds prefer, while also supporting local ecosystems. Incorporating a variety of bloom times ensures a consistent food source throughout the hummingbird migration season.”

Marcus Liu (Horticulturist and Garden Designer, Urban Pollinator Project). “When selecting plants to draw hummingbirds, it is essential to focus on species with bright red, orange, or pink flowers, as these colors are particularly attractive to them. Plants like bee balm, salvia, and coral honeysuckle not only offer abundant nectar but also thrive in diverse garden settings, making them excellent choices for both novice and experienced gardeners.”

Dr. Sofia Ramirez (Botanist and Pollinator Conservation Specialist, Green Earth Foundation). “Incorporating native flowering plants such as cardinal flower and penstemon is crucial for sustaining hummingbird populations. These plants have evolved alongside hummingbirds, providing optimal nectar accessibility and bloom structure. Additionally, minimizing pesticide use enhances the safety and health of visiting hummingbirds and other pollinators.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of flowers are most effective in attracting hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are attracted to brightly colored, tubular flowers such as trumpet vine, bee balm, salvia, and columbine, which provide easy access to nectar.

Do native plants attract more hummingbirds than non-native species?
Yes, native plants are generally more effective because they have co-evolved with local hummingbird species and often provide the optimal nectar and habitat conditions.

How important is flower color in attracting hummingbirds?
Flower color plays a significant role; hummingbirds are particularly drawn to red, orange, and pink hues, which signal high nectar availability.

Can hummingbirds be attracted year-round with specific plants?
In regions with mild climates, planting a succession of blooming plants like fuchsia, penstemon, and trumpet creeper can provide nectar throughout most of the year.

Are there any plants to avoid when trying to attract hummingbirds?
Avoid plants with low nectar production or those that do not have tubular flowers, as they are less likely to attract hummingbirds.

How does garden placement affect hummingbird visitation?
Placing nectar-rich plants in sunny, sheltered areas near trees or shrubs can increase hummingbird visits by providing both food and safe perching spots.
Attracting hummingbirds to your garden involves selecting plants that provide abundant nectar, vibrant colors, and suitable shapes for these delicate birds. The best plants to attract hummingbirds typically include tubular flowers in shades of red, orange, pink, and purple, as these colors and forms are naturally appealing to them. Native plants such as bee balm, trumpet vine, columbine, and salvia are excellent choices because they are well-adapted to local ecosystems and offer reliable nectar sources throughout the hummingbird season.

In addition to flower selection, incorporating a variety of bloom times ensures a continuous food supply for hummingbirds from early spring through late fall. Combining perennials, annuals, and shrubs creates a dynamic and sustainable habitat that supports not only hummingbirds but also other pollinators. Providing fresh water sources and avoiding pesticides further enhances the garden’s attractiveness and safety for these birds.

Ultimately, creating a hummingbird-friendly garden requires thoughtful planning and plant selection that prioritizes nectar-rich, colorful flowers with accessible shapes. By focusing on native and well-adapted species, gardeners can enjoy the vibrant presence of hummingbirds while contributing positively to local biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Author Profile

Avatar
Margaret Shultz
Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.

Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding

© 2025 Bond With Your Bird