What Plants Attract The Most Hummingbirds?

When it comes to attracting the most hummingbirds to your garden, selecting the right plants is crucial. Native flowering plants are the top choice for these tiny birds, providing them with the nectar they need to thrive. Planting a variety of native flowers will not only attract hummingbirds but also enhance the biodiversity of your garden.

One of the most popular choices among hummingbirds is the trumpet vine (Campsis radicans). Its vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers produce copious amounts of nectar, making it irresistible to these tiny creatures. The bright red or orange blossoms are a magnet for hummingbirds, adding a splash of color to your garden.

Another favorite of hummingbirds is the coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens). This native vine produces clusters of tubular flowers that are perfect for hummingbirds to feed on. The red, orange, or pink blooms not only attract hummingbirds but also butterflies, creating a lively ecosystem in your garden.

If you’re looking to add some height to your garden, consider planting bee balm (Monarda). This showy perennial produces vibrant flowers in shades of red, pink, or purple, attracting hummingbirds with its abundant nectar. Bee balm is not only a favorite of hummingbirds but also a low-maintenance plant that will thrive in various growing conditions.

For a continuous source of nectar throughout the season, include salvias in your garden. These easy-to-grow plants produce spikes of tubular flowers in an array of colors, such as red, purple, or blue. Hummingbirds are drawn to salvias for their nectar-rich blooms, ensuring that your garden remains a favorite feeding spot for these delightful birds.

To provide hummingbirds with a reliable food source, plant native columbines (Aquilegia) in your garden. These elegant flowers feature long spurs filled with nectar, attracting hummingbirds with their abundant food source. Columbines come in a variety of colors, adding beauty and charm to your outdoor space.

Adding cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis) to your garden is another way to entice hummingbirds with their bright red tubular flowers. These stunning plants thrive in moist, shady areas, making them a perfect choice for gardens with diverse growing conditions. The abundant nectar of cardinal flowers ensures frequent visits from hummingbirds.

For a touch of elegance in your garden, consider planting fuchsias. These hanging flowers produce ample nectar in their pendant-like blooms, attracting hummingbirds with their cascading colors. Fuchsias are an excellent choice for hanging baskets or containers, allowing you to create hummingbird-friendly spaces in any part of your garden.

Incorporating black and blue sage (Salvia guaranitica) in your garden will not only add a pop of color but also attract hummingbirds with its rich nectar source. The deep blue or black tubular flowers of this salvia variety are irresistible to hummingbirds, making them a must-have for any hummingbird-friendly garden.

Don’t forget to include red hot poker plants (Kniphofia) in your garden to attract hummingbirds with their unique torch-shaped flowers. These striking plants produce clusters of bright tubular blooms that are a favorite of hummingbirds. Red hot poker plants thrive in sunny locations, adding a splash of color and vibrancy to your garden.

By incorporating a variety of native flowering plants in your garden, you can create a vibrant and welcoming space for hummingbirds. These tiny birds will flock to your garden in search of the nectar-rich blooms, adding beauty and life to your outdoor sanctuary. With the right plants and a well-tended sugar-water feeder, you can create a hummingbird haven that will delight both you and these charming creatures.

Photo of author

Don Atkins

Don Atkins is a proud Canadian and experienced biology teacher living in Toronto. With a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Saskatchewan under his belt, Don has 10 years of teaching experience and is passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. He also volunteers at the Northeastern Avian Rescue, using his expertise to help birds in need. Don's enthusiasm for ornithology is undeniable, and he loves nothing more than to share it with those around him.