There exists an abundance of flowers that captivate the attention of hummingbirds, but it is imperative to discover plants that can endure and prosper within your specific weather conditions. In the event of excessive heat or bitter cold, these plants may perish or fail to flourish adequately, leading to insufficient production of the nectar-rich flowers that hummingbirds rely on.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has devised a plant hardiness zone map, dividing the nation into 13 zones based on average minimum temperatures. Within each state, various zones exist, indicating the suitability of plants. Plants thrive in particular zones and can withstand minimum temperatures, but they cannot survive in excessively cold conditions.
Kentucky, known for its warm summers and relatively cold winters, falls within the plant hardiness range of 6 to 7.
Additionally, certain plants may face challenges due to high temperatures. To address this, the American Horticultural Society created the plant heat-zone map, which displays the average number of days with temperatures exceeding 86 degrees Fahrenheit in a given area.
The majority of Kentucky falls within heat zones 4 and 8, suggesting that the cold winters pose more significant issues for plants compared to the warm summers.
In Kentucky, careful consideration of cold zones and heat zones was undertaken to ensure that the selected plants for hummingbirds possess not only stunning, nectar-rich flowers that attract hummingbirds but also the ability to thrive in the local weather conditions.
It should be noted that some plants in this list, such as Fuchsia, Cypress vine, Abelia, Mimosa, and Hibiscus, may struggle to survive the colder winters in zone 5 of Kentucky without protective measures.
To entice hummingbirds in Kentucky, it is recommended to plant as many of these flowers as possible.
1. Nasturtiums
Hummingbird Plants Kentucky Hardiness Zones 5 – 6:
Nasturtiums are trailing flowers with edible properties, making them ideal for creating hanging baskets that attract hummingbirds. They possess rich nectar and feature deep, specially designed flowers.
These flowers are typically cultivated as annuals and are available in trailing or bush varieties. Plant the seeds outdoors just after the final frost, ensuring they receive watering during the growing season and require deadheading.
Common Name: Nasturtiums
Scientific Name: Tropaeolum
Growing Zones: 2 – 11
Sun: Full
Soil: Well-drained
Colors: Red, orange, yellow, pink
Height: 1 – 10 feet
Spread: 1 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Annual
2. Zinnia
Zinnias are shrubs native to North America, primarily found in scrublands and dry grasslands. They belong to the sunflower tribe (genus Heliantheae) within the larger daisy family (Asteraceae).
Zinnias can be categorized into three main types based on their petal structure. Single-flowered zinnias possess a single row of petals with a visible center. Double-flowered zinnias have multiple rows of petals without a visible center, while semi-double-flowered zinnias exhibit numerous rows and visible centers.
The Zinnia elegans, with its tall stems and vibrant colors, represents a classic choice and is particularly popular for backyard and garden settings. Reaching a height of 4 feet, it boasts numerous brilliantly-colored flowers and exhibits a long blooming period from early summer to frost. Its captivating allure attracts not only hummingbirds but also butterflies and other pollinators.
Growing zinnias is a straightforward process, although they prefer to be directly sown in their intended location, as they do not tolerate transplantation well. Once they establish themselves in full sun and well-draining soil, they will provide delightful blooms for an extended duration.
Common Name: Zinnia
Scientific Name: Zinnia elegans
Growing Zones: Annuals in 2-8, Perennials in 9-11
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Neutral to slightly alkaline, well-draining
Colors: White, yellow, orange, pink, red, purple
Height: 1 – 4 feet tall
Spread: 12 – 18 feet wide
Plant Type: Annual, Perennial Shrubs
3. Agastache
Agastache, pronounced as “ah-GAH-stuh-kee,” represents a collection of aromatic herbaceous perennials consisting of approximately 22 species, with most originating from North America. Commonly known as “hummingbird mints” and “Giant hyssops,” these plants can also be utilized for herbal tea.
The flowers of Agastache possess an irresistible allure to hummingbirds as they stand out prominently amidst the foliage. Growing in clusters, these flowers measure approximately 3 to 4 inches in length and appear fuzzy due to the presence of numerous tiny flowers. The striking purple and red hues of Agastache flowers represent hummingbirds’ preferred colors, making them irresistible to these birds, especially during their full bloom in the summer.
To cultivate Agastache flowers successfully, it is advisable to start them as indoor plants in May and subsequently transplant them into flower beds during the summer. They require full sun exposure and regular watering during the establishment phase. However, once they become established, they exhibit drought tolerance and can thrive without excessive intervention. Since Agastache plants originate from desert regions, they can withstand even the hottest days. It is important to avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Instead, a thorough watering followed by allowing the soil to dry is preferable.
Common Name: Agastache, Hummingbird Mint, Hyssop
Scientific Name: Agastache
Growing Zones: 3 – 10
Sun: Full Sun
Soil: Lean soil, well-drained
Colors: Blue, purple, red, orange, pink, white
Height: 3 to 5 feet tall
Spread: Varies
Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
4. Morning Glory
Morning Glory serves as a collective term encompassing over 1,000 species of flowering plants belonging to the Convolvulaceae family. These plants earned their name due to their flowers’ habit of opening early in the morning and closing as the day heats up, although certain species within the Morning Glory family bloom during the night, such as Ipomoea alba.
The distinctive features of Morning Glory flowers include their vibrant and colorful blooms, rapid vine growth, bright green foliage, and ability to tolerate poor and dry soils. These flowers are often intertwined around arbors or allowed to climb along the exterior walls of houses using trellises.
One prominent Morning Glory species known to attract hummingbirds is Ipomoea purpurea. With its trumpet-shaped, bright purple flowers and heart-shaped leaves, it opens in the morning and closes in the afternoon. These delightful blooms persist from early summer to early fall.
Morning Glory is typically considered an annual vine, although it may exhibit perennial traits in milder climates. It thrives when exposed to full sun, preferably around 8 hours of sunlight per day, ensuring optimal blooming. Vigilance is necessary to prevent these fast-growing vines from becoming invasive. Additionally, it is important to note that Morning Glory seeds are toxic if ingested, so caution should be exercised to ensure the safety of children and pets.
Common Name: Morning Glory, Common Morning Glory
Scientific Name: Convolvulaceae family
Growing Zones: 2 – 11
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Moist, well-draining
Colors: White, pink, purple, blue
Height: 6 – 10 feet tall
Spread: 3 – 6 feet wide
Plant Type: Annual
5. Impatiens
Impatiens, vibrant annuals renowned for their bright and colorful blooms, serve as excellent additions to shady areas. These flowers also have an attraction for hummingbirds.
Impatiens thrive in moist and well-draining soil, making them suitable for shaded locations such as porches or hanging baskets. They are commonly purchased as established plants in trays from nurseries and are often planted close together to create dense mats of flowers and leaves.
Seeds can be collected from the plants and sown indoors 10 weeks prior to the last frost, as they require a significant amount of time to flower. Additionally, cuttings can be taken in the fall and grown indoors until the frost subsides.
Common Name: Impatiens, Jewelweed, Touch-me-not, Snapweed, Patience
Scientific Name: Impatiens
Growing Zones: 2 – 11
Sun: Shade or partial shade
Soil: Rich, well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, yellow, coral
Height: 6 – 36 inches
Spread: 1 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Annual
6. Columbine
Columbine plants rank among the top choices for attracting hummingbirds due to their diverse range of vibrant-colored flowers and their adaptability to partial shade.
Columbine, also known as Aquilegia, presents an elegant perennial with spiky, bell-shaped blooms ranging from 3 to 6 inches in length. Many different varieties of columbine exist, with most preferring full sun to partial shade and flowering as early as spring.
This versatile flower exhibits shade tolerance, drought tolerance, and resistance to deer. To cultivate columbine successfully, it is recommended to sow the seeds directly in the ground during spring. Left undisturbed at the end of the flowering season, they may self-seed. Alternatively, for a head start, the seeds can be sown indoors 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. However, it should be noted that flowers will not appear until the second year for seed-grown plants.
Common Name: Columbine, Aquilegia
Scientific Name: Aquilegia
Growing Zones: 3-9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Neutral pH, moist but not wet
Colors: Red, pink, blue, orange, white, yellow
Height: 1 – 3 feet
Spread: 1 foot
Plant Type: Perennial
7. Coneflower
Coneflower, scientifically known as Echinacea, belongs to the daisy family (Asteraceae) and comprises a common name for a variety of flowering plants. The name “Echinacea” originates from the Greek term for “sea urchin,” referencing the plants’ shiny central disk.
Coneflowers encompass ten species known for their downward-pointing petals, forming a cone-like shape once the central flower head unfolds. Among these species, Echinacea purpurea, also known as the purple coneflower, stands out as a popular choice for ornamental purposes, native to eastern North America.
Coneflowers feature large flowers, approximately 6 inches in diameter, adorning stalks that reach heights of around 5 feet. Various colors are available, including pink, red, orange, yellow, and white, depending on the specific variety. These vibrant flowers attract hummingbirds, as well as bees and butterflies, due to their nectar-rich central cone.
For optimal growth, coneflowers thrive in full sun exposure, with well-drained soil conditions. The blooms persist from summer to fall, adding visual interest even in winter.
Common Name: Coneflower
Scientific Name: Echinacea
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Varies
Colors: White, yellow, orange, pink, red, purple, green
Height: 2 to 5 feet tall
Spread: 1 ½ – 2 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial
8. Penstemon
Penstemon represents a genus within the plantain family (Plantaginaceae), comprising more than 250 ornamental flowering plants such as snapdragons and foxgloves. It is often referred to as “Beardtongue” due to the tuft of small hairs on the pollen-free stamen protruding from the flowers.
With a wide array of species, Penstemon offers numerous varieties suitable for different types of backyards. Despite their varying sizes and colors, all Penstemon species share certain characteristics: drought tolerance, attraction to hummingbirds and bees, easy maintenance, and the ability to brighten any garden with their lovely blooms.
Flowering in early summer, Penstemon plants become focal points in garden settings due to their spires and colorful clusters of tubular flowers. Depending on the chosen variety, they may display a range of colors, including blue, purple, red, orange, white, pink, and yellow.
Hummingbirds are drawn to Penstemon flowers for their vibrant colors and nectar-rich characteristics.
To ensure optimal growth, plant penstemons in locations where they receive full sunlight. This allows for abundant blooming and prevents stems from drooping due to shade. Penstemons prefer lean soil with moist conditions. While they can tolerate drought, occasional watering is recommended. Choosing a variety suited to the specific soil condition and climate contributes to their long-lasting presence.
Common Name: Penstemon, Foxglove Beard-tongue, Talus Slope Penstemon, White Beardtongue
Scientific Name: Penstemon
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Lean, fast-draining
Colors: Blue, purple, red, orange, white, pink, yellow
Height: 6 to 12 inches, 1 to 3 feet, 3 to 8 feet
Spread: 8 to 20 inches
Plant Type: Perennial
9. Summersweet
Summersweet serves as a flowering shrub that not only enhances the visual appeal of your backyard but also attracts hummingbirds.
Clethra alnifolia, also known as coastal sweet pepperbush or Summersweet, represents a flowering plant from the Clethraceae family, native to eastern North America. It thrives in various climates, particularly in wetlands and along the edges of ponds and streams.
Summersweet features vertical spikes of spicy-scented white flowers set against dark green foliage. As autumn approaches, the green leaves transition to shades of yellow or gold. The name “pepper” derives from the brown seed capsules resembling peppercorns that fall after the flowers bloom.
Summersweet flowers typically bloom between July and August, measuring 2 to 6 inches in length and available in white or pink hues. Emitting a delightful fragrance, they attract butterflies and hummingbirds, while the pepper-like seeds entice birds during the autumn season.
Since Summersweet plants are native to coastal areas, they thrive in moist to wet soil and shaded environments. In fact, flowers tend to bloom more profusely in shade than in direct sunlight. Adequate hydration is necessary during dry weather conditions. These plants exhibit tolerance to salty air, reflecting their natural habitat.
To ensure proper care, provide Summersweet plants with ample space, as they tend to spread widely. Maintain soil moisture and prune old branches during spring to encourage new growth and maintain the desired shape of the shrub.
Common Name: Summersweet, Coastal Sweet Pepperbush
Scientific Name: Clethra alnifolia
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun or partial shade
Soil: Moist to wet soil, slightly acidic
Colors: White, pink, rose-colored
Height: 4 – 8 feet tall
Spread: 4 – 6 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial, Deciduous shrub
10. Yarrow
Yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea millefolium, carries an abundance of folklore related to its name. Its scientific name references the mythical Greek hero Achilles, who reputedly used yarrow to treat wounds suffered by his soldiers.
The name “Yarrow” is associated with its historic use in both initiating and stopping nosebleeds. The term “millefolium” translates to “thousand leaves,” describing its feathery leaves that appear finely divided.
Common Yarrow encompasses a multitude of varieties, featuring clusters of tiny flowers in shades of white, yellow, pink, or red, depending on the specific variant. These clusters, composed of 15 to 40 flowers, densely grow atop the stems.
The delicate, fern-like leaves of Yarrow are evenly distributed along the stems, measuring 2 to 8 inches in length. The lower and middle leaves tend to grow larger. Yarrow leaves are aromatic and visually appealing.
Yarrow flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies due to their vibrant colors and nectar content.
Cultivating Common Yarrow in your garden is relatively straightforward. Providing full sun exposure and regular watering, especially during the establishment phase, are crucial. Common Yarrow also possesses medicinal properties, making it useful for various conditions such as wounds, burns, colds, fever, and headaches.
Common Name: Common Yarrow, Milfoil, Nosebleed, Thousand-leaf
Scientific Name: Achillea millefolium
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Sandy, loamy, clay, well-draining
Colors: White, yellow, pink, red
Height: 2 to 3 feet tall
Spread: 2 to 3 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial
11. Butterfly Weed
Butterfly Weed, scientifically known as Asclepias tuberosa, stands out as a bushy and visually striking plant that attracts hummingbirds to your garden.
Asclepias tuberosa, also called Pleurisy Root due to its historical use in treating pleurisy and other pulmonary ailments, belongs to the Milkweed family. However, unlike other milkweed varieties, it does not possess a milky sap. Another common name for Butterfly Weed is Orange Milkweed, reflecting the vibrant orange hue of its flowers.
To attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, planting Butterfly Weed is highly recommended. Its bright orange to yellow flowers, nectar-rich and arranged in clusters, emerge atop thick, hairy stems amidst lush green foliage.
The blooms of Butterfly Weed persist from late spring to summer. It is advisable to remove the seed pods if you wish to prevent self-seeding and potential invasiveness.
Butterfly Weed is relatively easy to grow but requires patience as it may take up to three years to flower. It is best to plant them in a permanent location, as their tuberous roots dislike transplantation. These plants thrive under full sun exposure and exhibit minimal water requirements once established.
In addition to their beauty and appeal to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, Butterfly Weed plays a crucial role in the preservation of monarch butterflies. Monarch caterpillars rely on milkweed leaves as a food source, making the presence of Butterfly Weed essential for their survival.
Common Name: Butterfly Weed, Butterfly Flower, Orange Milkweed, Pleurisy Root
Scientific Name: Asclepias tuberosa
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Poor, dry, well-draining soil
Colors: Orange, yellow, red
Height: 1 to 2 feet tall
Spread: 12 to 18 inches wide
Plant Type: Perennial
12. Hydrangea
Hydrangeas offer stunning, large flower heads that bring beauty to shaded areas of your yard. These showy plants are not particularly fond of excessive heat and thrive best in shade, especially during the afternoon.
Hydrangeas prefer moist soil conditions, so regular watering, particularly during dry periods, is essential. Pruning can be done once the flowers have withered in winter.
Hydrangea flowers persist from spring to well into fall, adding interest even during the winter months.
Common Name: Hydrangea
Scientific Name: Hydrangea
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun to shade
Soil: Fertile, well-draining
Colors: Pink, red, white, blue, green
Height: 3 – 15ft
Spread: 2 – 12 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
13. Veronica
Veronica represents a diverse genus comprising around 500 species, making it the largest within the Plantaginaceae family. These herbaceous plants are native to the temperate Northern Hemisphere.
Veronica plants encompass various varieties, ranging from low-growing ground covers that bloom in spring to tall species with upright vertical flower spikes that flourish during the summer.
One notable species, Veronica spicata, captivates attention with its colorful vertical spikes of tiny flowers. Available in shades of white, pink, purple, and blue, these attractive flowers entice hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
Veronicas, also referred to as Speedwells, exhibit hardiness and can adapt to almost any soil type. These plants face minimal pest problems, and deadheading can extend their flowering season. Veronicas thrive in full sunlight but require regular watering during the initial stages of growth to ensure optimal blooms. Choosing a variety that suits specific soil conditions and climate contributes to their longevity.
Common Name: Veronica, Speedwell
Scientific Name: Genus Veronica from the family Plantaginaceae
Growing Zones: 3 – 11
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Soil: Well-drained
Colors: White, pink, purple, blue
Height: 6 inches to 3 feet tall
Spread: 6 inches to 2 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial
14. Bleeding Heart
Bleeding Heart flowers during the spring, emitting a delightful sweet fragrance. These perennial plants require minimal maintenance and can be grown in full sun or partial shade.
These plants serve as fantastic additions to shaded corners, with their delicate flowers gracefully arching from hanging baskets.
Bleeding Heart plants may die back if exposed to excessive heat or sunlight, but their roots remain intact, allowing for regrowth in the following year. Adequate watering during the growing season, with moist but not overly wet soil conditions, is essential.
Bleeding Heart goes dormant in the fall, and pruning can be done once the leaves start to yellow. The plant will regrow during the following season.
Common Name: Bleeding Heart
Scientific Name: Dicentra spectabilis
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Colors: Red, white, pink
Height: 3 feet
Spread: 3 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
15. Cardinal Flower
With its long, bright red tubular flowers, Cardinal Flower is specifically designed to attract hummingbirds with their elongated bills.
These herbaceous perennials bloom in late summer, showcasing their striking red flowers on terminal spikes.
Cardinal flowers do not tolerate drought well and thrive in moist soil conditions that do not dry out. When planting them in pots, it is recommended to place the pots in trays of water that can be easily topped up.
Common Name: Cardinal Flower
Scientific Name: Lobelia cardinalis
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Rich, moist
Colors: Red, pink, white
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
16. Salvia
Salvia is a diverse genus of flowering plants that encompasses numerous species and cultivars. These plants are known for their vibrant and long-lasting blooms, which attract hummingbirds to your garden.
Salvia flowers vary in color, including shades of blue, purple, red, and pink. They typically grow in spiky clusters, creating an eye-catching display in any landscape.
Growing Salvia is relatively easy, as these plants are adaptable and tolerant of different soil conditions. They thrive in full sun and require regular watering to maintain soil moisture.
Common Name: Salvia
Scientific Name: Salvia
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained
Colors: Blue, purple, red, pink, and more
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Perennial or annual, depending on the species
17. Bee Balm
Bee Balm, also known as Monarda, is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts not only bees but also hummingbirds to your garden. These plants feature vibrant, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, or white.
The aromatic foliage of Bee Balm adds another layer of appeal to this plant. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. Regular watering and deadheading can help prolong the blooming period.
Common Name: Bee Balm, Monarda
Scientific Name: Monarda
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, white
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
18. Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Vine, scientifically known as Campsis radicans, is a vigorous climbing vine that produces stunning trumpet-shaped flowers. These flowers come in shades of red, orange, and yellow, making them highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Trumpet Vine requires sturdy support, such as trellises or fences, for its climbing nature. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Once established, it is relatively low-maintenance, though it may require occasional pruning to manage its growth.
Common Name: Trumpet Vine
Scientific Name: Campsis radicans
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, orange, yellow
Height: Climbing vine
Spread: Varies depending on support structure
Plant Type: Perennial vine
19. Coral Honeysuckle
Coral Honeysuckle, scientifically known as Lonicera sempervirens, is a twining vine that produces clusters of tubular flowers in vibrant shades of coral, red, or orange. These fragrant flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds.
This vine thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. Coral Honeysuckle is a relatively low-maintenance plant and can be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape.
Common Name: Coral Honeysuckle
Scientific Name: Lonicera sempervirens
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-draining
Colors: Coral, red, orange
Height: Climbing vine
Spread: Varies depending on support structure
Plant Type: Perennial vine
20. Red Hot Poker
Red Hot Poker, also known as Kniphofia, is a striking perennial plant that produces tall spikes of tubular flowers in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. These flowers, arranged in clusters atop sturdy stems, are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Red Hot Poker thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. Deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooms.
Common Name: Red Hot Poker
Scientific Name: Kniphofia
Growing Zones: 5 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, orange, yellow
Height: 2 – 5 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
21. Cardinal Climber
Cardinal Climber, scientifically known as Ipomoea sloteri, is an annual vine that produces delicate, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red or pink. These flowers, resembling miniature cardinal hats, are a magnet for hummingbirds.
This vine prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can quickly climb trellises or fences, adding vertical interest to your garden. Cardinal Climber requires regular watering and may benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape.
Common Name: Cardinal Climber
Scientific Name: Ipomoea sloteri
Growing Zones: Annual
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink
Height: Climbing vine
Spread: Varies depending on support structure
Plant Type: Annual vine
22. Foxglove
Foxglove, scientifically known as Digitalis purpurea, is a tall, elegant biennial or perennial plant that produces beautiful, bell-shaped flowers along tall stalks. These flowers can come in shades of pink, purple, white, or yellow and are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Foxglove thrives in partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. It can reach impressive heights and adds vertical interest to garden beds or borders. However, caution should be exercised as all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Common Name: Foxglove
Scientific Name: Digitalis purpurea
Growing Zones: 4 – 10
Sun: Partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-draining
Colors: Pink, purple, white, yellow
Height: 3 – 6 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Biennial or perennial
23. Beebalm Penstemon
Beebalm Penstemon, scientifically known as Penstemon barbatus, is a herbaceous perennial plant that produces showy, tubular flowers in shades of red or pink. These flowers, with their attractive spiky clusters, are highly enticing to hummingbirds.
Beebalm Penstemon thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. Deadheading spent flowers can promote further blooming.
Common Name: Beebalm Penstemon
Scientific Name: Penstemon barbatus
Growing Zones: 5 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink
Height: 2 – 3 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
24. Lantana
Lantana is a genus of flowering plants that encompasses numerous species, including both perennials and annuals. These plants produce clusters of small, tubular flowers that come in a wide range of colors, such as red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple. Lantana flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Lantana plants thrive in full sun and prefer well-draining soil. They are relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. Regular deadheading can encourage continuous blooming.
Common Name: Lantana
Scientific Name: Lantana
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and more
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Perennial or annual, depending on the species
25. Cape Honeysuckle
Cape Honeysuckle, scientifically known as Tecomaria capensis, is a sprawling shrub or vine that produces clusters of tubular flowers in vibrant shades of orange or red. These flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Cape Honeysuckle thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions once established. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
Common Name: Cape Honeysuckle
Scientific Name: Tecomaria capensis
Growing Zones: 9 – 11
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Orange, red
Height: 6 – 10 feet
Spread: 6 – 10 feet
Plant Type: Shrub or vine
26. Butterfly Bush
Butterfly Bush, scientifically known as Buddleja davidii, is a shrub that lives up to its name by attracting not only butterflies but also hummingbirds with its long, showy flower spikes. These flowers come in various shades, including pink, purple, white, and yellow.
Butterfly Bush thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate drought once established. Regular pruning in early spring can help promote healthy growth and ensure an abundance of blooms.
Common Name: Butterfly Bush
Scientific Name: Buddleja davidii
Growing Zones: 5 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Pink, purple, white, yellow
Height: 5 – 10 feet
Spread: 4 – 10 feet
Plant Type: Shrub
27. Agapanthus
Agapanthus, also known as Lily of the Nile, is a stunning perennial plant that produces clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of blue or white. These flowers, perched atop tall stalks, are highly attractive to hummingbirds.
Agapanthus thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Deadheading spent flowers can promote further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance.
Common Name: Agapanthus, Lily of the Nile
Scientific Name: Agapanthus
Growing Zones: 6 – 11
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Blue, white
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
28. Sage
Sage, scientifically known as Salvia officinalis, is a versatile herbaceous perennial plant that not only adds flavor to culinary dishes but also attracts hummingbirds with its vibrant flowers. These flowers can come in various shades, including purple, blue, pink, or white.
Sage thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. Regular pruning can help promote healthy growth and maintain its shape.
Common Name: Sage
Scientific Name: Salvia officinalis
Growing Zones: 4 – 8
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Purple, blue, pink, white
Height: 1 – 3 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
29. Columbine
Columbine, scientifically known as Aquilegia, is a charming perennial plant that produces unique, spurred flowers in various colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, yellow, and white. These flowers have an intricate structure that hummingbirds find irresistible.
Columbine thrives in partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can self-seed, allowing it to naturalize in the garden. Regular deadheading can help prolong the blooming period.
Common Name: Columbine
Scientific Name: Aquilegia
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, yellow, white
Height: 1 – 3 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
30. Fuchsia
Fuchsia is a genus of flowering plants that encompasses both shrubs and trailing plants. These plants produce pendant flowers in vibrant shades of pink, red, purple, or white, which hummingbirds find highly enticing.
Fuchsia plants thrive in partial shade and prefer well-draining soil. They require regular watering to maintain soil moisture. Pinching or pruning the tips of the plant can promote bushier growth and more abundant blooms.
Common Name: Fuchsia
Scientific Name: Fuchsia
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Partial shade
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Pink, red, purple, white
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Shrub or trailing plant