Numerous blossoms possess the ability to allure hummingbirds, yet it is crucial to discover plants that can withstand and prosper in your specific weather conditions. In cases of extreme heat or cold, these plants may wither away or fail to yield sufficient flowers that provide nectar for hummingbirds.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has developed a plant hardiness zone map that divides the country into 13 zones based on average minimum temperatures. Each state also encompasses various zones. Plants thrive in different zones and can tolerate minimum temperatures but may not survive if exposed to extreme cold.
Arizona is renowned for its moderate winters and scorching summers, although disparities exist between the northern and southern regions of the state, with the north being cooler than the south and west. According to the plant hardiness zone map, Arizona ranges from 4b to 10b.
Additionally, excessive heat can be detrimental to certain plants. To address this concern, the American Horticultural Society has created a plant heat-zone map, which displays the average number of days an area experiences temperatures exceeding 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
In Arizona, the challenge for hummingbird plants lies more in enduring the hot weather rather than coping with cold temperatures. The northeastern region of the state tends to be cooler than the south and west, necessitating the cultivation of heat-tolerant plants. Arizona’s heat zone map ranges from 5 to 10, while the cooler northeastern region experiences lower temperatures.
To ensure the suitability of these hummingbird plants in Arizona, they have been carefully evaluated based on their compatibility with both cold and heat zones. These plants not only showcase magnificent nectar-rich flowers adored by hummingbirds but also flourish in the distinct weather conditions prevalent in Arizona.
The selection of hummingbird plants for Arizona has been divided into categories based on their ability to thrive in the hotter southwestern regions (zones 10-11), the southern and western areas (zone 9), and the cooler northeastern regions (hardiness zone 4 and above).
Therefore, to attract hummingbirds in Connecticut, it is recommended to cultivate as many of these flowers as possible.
1. Morning Glory
Morning Glory represents an umbrella term encompassing over 1,000 species of flowering plants from the Convolvulaceae family. These plants are bestowed with the name “Morning Glory” due to their early morning blossoming, followed by the closure of their flowers as the day progresses. However, certain species within the Morning Glory family, such as Ipomoea alba, bloom during the night.
Distinguished by their vibrant and colorful blooms, fast-growing vines, lush green foliage, and adaptability to poor and arid soils, Morning Glory plants are commonly entwined around structures like arbors or allowed to creep along the exterior walls of houses with the aid of a trellis.
One notable species of Morning Glory that attracts hummingbirds is Ipomoea purpurea. Its trumpet-shaped flowers exhibit a striking purple hue, while its heart-shaped leaves unfurl in the morning and close during the afternoon. These blossoms grace the plant from early summer to the onset of fall.
While Morning Glory is an annual vine, it can behave as a perennial in milder climates. Providing them with full sun exposure, up to eight hours of sunlight per day, is crucial for their optimal blooming.
It is worth noting that Morning Glories have the potential to become invasive if not properly managed, owing to their rapid growth. Furthermore, their seeds are toxic when consumed, necessitating caution to prevent children and pets from coming into contact with the plant.
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
2. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are trailing flowers renowned for their rich nectar and suitability for creating hanging baskets that attract hummingbirds. These edible flowers are typically cultivated as annuals and are available in trailing or bush varieties. Planting the seeds immediately after the last frost and providing adequate watering during the growing season, along with regular deadheading, is essential for their thriving.
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
3. Zinnia
Zinnias are flowering shrubs native to North America’s scrublands and arid grasslands. Belonging to the sunflower tribe (Heliantheae) within the extensive daisy family (Asteraceae), they exhibit three main types based on their petal structure: single-flowered, double-flowered, and semi-double-flowered zinnias.
Single-flowered zinnias possess a single row of petals surrounding a visible center. Double-flowered zinnias exhibit numerous rows of petals without a discernible center, while semi-double-flowered zinnias display multiple rows of petals with visible centers.
Zinnia elegans, known for its towering stems and vibrant colors, is considered a classic choice, ideal for backyard gardens. Reaching a height of 4 feet, it showcases an abundance of brilliantly colored flowers, blooming from early summer until the first frost. These flowers attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
Growing zinnias is a straightforward process; however, they prefer direct sowing as they do not tolerate transplanting well. Once established in full sun and well-draining soil, these resilient plants will reward you with their vibrant blooms.
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
4. Agastache
Agastache, pronounced as “ah-GAH-stuh-kee,” comprises aromatic herbaceous perennials, with approximately 22 species, most of which are native to North America. Often referred to as “hummingbird mints” and “Giant hyssops,” these plants can also be used to make herbal tea.
The distinctive flowers of Agastache catch the attention of hummingbirds with their prominent presence among the foliage. These flowers, about 3 to 4 inches in length, possess a fuzzy appearance due to the clustering of numerous tiny flowers. The vivid purple and red hues of the flowers appeal to hummingbirds, particularly when they are in full bloom during the summer.
To cultivate Agastache successfully, it is advisable to start them as indoor plants in May and subsequently transplant them to flower beds during the summer. These plants thrive under full sun and regular watering during the establishment phase. Once established, they become drought-tolerant and require minimal intervention.
Given their desert plant characteristics, Agastache can withstand scorching days without issue. Consequently, excessive watering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot
. Instead, provide them with occasional watering and allow them to dry out between watering sessions.
Common Name: Agastache, Hummingbird Mint, and Hyssop
Scientific Name: Agastache
Growing Zones: 3 – 10
Sun: Full Sun
Soil: Lean soil, well-drained
Colors: Blue, purple, red, orange, pink, and white
Height: 3 to 5 feet tall
Spread:
Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
5. Daylily
Daylilies are perennial plants belonging to the Asphodelaceae family, beloved by gardeners for their captivating flowers. The development of approximately 35,000 cultivars has resulted in a wide array of colors, varying plant hardiness, disease resistance, and sturdiness.
Despite their name, daylilies are not true lilies. They grow from fleshy roots rather than bulb-like structures. Their flowers bloom on leafless stems called “scapes,” which can bear 12 to 15 buds. Each mature daylily plant typically produces 4 to 6 scapes, resulting in abundant blooms throughout multiple seasons.
While individual daylily flowers only last a day, the presence of numerous scapes ensures a continuous display of flowers from mid-spring to fall. To promote the blooming of these brilliantly colored flowers, it is crucial to position daylilies in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. While they can tolerate drought, regular watering is necessary, particularly during the scape and bud formation stage.
Hummingbirds are naturally attracted to daylilies, especially those with vibrant red and purple hues. They are particularly drawn to the tubular varieties, as these flowers contain ample nectar.
Common Name: Daylily
Scientific Name: Genus Hemerocallis
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Slightly acidic to neutral
Colors: White, yellow, orange, pink, red, purple
Height: 3 to 4 feet tall
Spread: 2 to 4 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial
6. Cypress vine
Cypress Vine, scientifically known as Ipomoea quamoclit, belongs to the bindweed Convolvulaceae family and hails from tropical South America. It has spread to other parts of the world, particularly tropical regions, where it is cultivated as an ornamental plant. In regions with colder climates, it is grown as an annual vine.
With its delicate appearance, featuring dainty flowers and fragile-looking leaves, Cypress Vine has earned a reputation as an invasive species in some states due to its vigorous growth. Pruning the plant annually and preventing it from seeding are essential steps in its maintenance.
Nonetheless, Cypress Vine remains one of the top choices for attracting hummingbirds. Its vibrant red, trumpet-like flowers, shaped like a star, have earned it the nickname “Star of Bethlehem” and the moniker “hummingbird vine.” The flowers’ bright colors and nectar-rich composition make them irresistible to hummingbirds.
The red flowers stand out beautifully against the slender, thread-like leaves of the Cypress Vine. These plants entwine themselves around structures such as arbors, pergolas, chain-link fences, and deck posts that receive ample sunlight.
When cultivating Cypress Vine, it’s important to be mindful of its growth habit, as it can overtake neighboring plants if left unchecked. Proper guidance and support, such as carefully wrapping the stems around a designated structure, can direct its growth. However, caution must be exercised, as the vines can be fragile and may break if their support is lost.
It’s worth noting that all parts of the plant, especially the seeds, are poisonous if ingested by humans or pets.
Common Name: Cypress Vine
Scientific Name: Ipomoea quamoclit
Growing Zones: 6 – 11
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Fertile, well-drained, and evenly moist
Colors: White, pink, red
Height: 3 – 20 feet tall
Spread: Climbs up to 20 feet
Plant Type: Perennial vine in tropics, Annual vine in temperate regions
7. Lantana
Lantanas offer an excellent way to add visual interest to pots and containers, and their small clustered flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds. These vine-like plants are ideal for cascading over the edges of pots and baskets.
In colder regions, Lantanas can be grown as annuals, while frost-free areas allow them to thrive as evergreen shrubs. However, it’s important to check for any restrictions, as they can be considered invasive in frost-free regions. Growing them in pots can help contain their spread.
Common Name: Lantana
Scientific Name: Lantana
Growing Zones: 8 – 11 or grow as annual
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic
Colors: Red, orange, yellow, blue, pink, white
Height: 6 feet
Spread: 6 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
8. Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea, a genus of thorny and woody ornamental vines from the Nyctaginaceae family, is known for its striking appearance. Often referred to as “paper flowers,” these vines produce large, colorful, paper-thin bracts that give the illusion of flowers. The actual flowers, small and white, are nestled within the bracts.
Bougainvillea flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds, blooming continuously in zones 9-11. However, it’s important to protect the plant’s roots from freezing during winter by bringing it indoors. To mitigate this, growing Bougainvillea in containers allows for easy relocation indoors during colder temperatures.
These thorny vines can be trained to cover
fences or serve as security hedges. They can also crawl along house walls, although caution must be exercised to prevent accidental contact with thorns, especially for children and pets.
Common Name: Bougainvillea, paper flower
Scientific Name: Bougainvillea glabra
Growing Zones: 9 – 11
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Loamy, well-draining
Colors: Yellow, orange, crimson, purple bracts, white flowers
Height: Up to 40 feet tall
Spread: Up to 40 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial, Deciduous, or Evergreen Vine
9. Calibrachoa (Million Bells)
Calibrachoa, commonly known as million bells or trailing petunia, belongs to the Solanaceae family. These small shrubs are relatively new in the realm of ornamental plants, introduced in the 1990s. Their popularity stems from the profusion of colorful blooms, reminiscent of miniature petunias.
Calibrachoa plants are well-suited for containers and hanging baskets due to their rapid growth and cascading habit. While they reach a maximum height of 12 inches, their prolific flowering results in an abundance of blooms, often overshadowing the foliage.
The bell-shaped flowers of Calibrachoa come in a wide range of colors, including coral, yellow, orange, red, pink, blue, purple, burgundy, lavender, and cream. Some varieties exhibit dual-colors, veined petals, and segmented petals. These flowers naturally attract hummingbirds.
Growing and maintaining Calibrachoa is relatively easy. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. Adjusting watering frequency during hot spells is essential to ensure their well-being.
Common Name: Calibrachoa, million bells, trailing petunia, mini petunia
Scientific Name: Calibrachoa
Growing Zones: 9 – 11
Sun: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil: Moist, rich, well-drained
Colors: Coral, yellow, orange, red, pink, blue, purple, burgundy, lavender, cream
Height: 6 – 12 inches tall
Spread: 12 – 24 inches wide
Plant Type: Perennial
10. Mandevilla
Mandevilla encompasses a group of tropical and subtropical flowering vines from the Apocynaceae family. Also known as rocktrumpet, dogbane, or dipladenia, these plants originate from South America, southwestern United States, and Mexico.
With their large, showy, and fragrant flowers, Mandevillas bloom from late spring to late summer, extending into fall in mild climates. The flowers, available in white, pink, and red, create a stunning visual impact against fences, trellises, and arbors. Their tube-shaped structure and bright colors make them highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Mandevilla can be grown in pots on the ground or in hanging gardens. Alternatively, they can be directly planted in the soil with appropriate support structures for climbing and twining. These plants prefer full sunlight and moist soil, although watering frequency can be reduced during colder periods to prevent root rot.
It is important to handle Mandevilla with care, as all parts of the plant, especially the milky sap, can cause skin irritation. While not highly poisonous, ingestion by pets can lead to adverse reactions.
Common Name: Mandevilla, rocktrumpet, dogbane, or dipladenia
Scientific Name: Mandevilla
Growing Zones: 9 – 11
Sun: Full Sun, partial shade
Soil: Moist but well-drained
Colors: White, pink, red
Height: 3 – 10 feet tall
Spread: 3 – 4 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial vine, annual vine in colder climates
11. Petunias
Petunias are colorful and inexpensive annuals that are easy to grow in a sunny location, making them great for containers. Their abundant flowers tumble out of pots and containers, creating a beautiful display.
You can find young petunia plants in flats at nurseries or grow them from seeds. If starting from seed, sow them about ten weeks before the last frost date and plant them out once the risk of frost has passed.
Petunias are heat-tolerant but should be watered deeply about once a week. To prevent them from becoming thin and leggy, prune them to about half their height.
For attracting hummingbirds, consider planting petunias in brighter colors like reds and pinks.
Common Name: Petunias
Scientific Name: Petunia
Growing Zones: 9-11
Sun: Full Sun
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Colors: Red, pink, white, blue, purple
Height: 6-18 inches
Spread: 18 inches to 4 feet
Plant Type: Tender perennial, annual
12. Canary Creeper
The Canary Creeper, scientifically known as Tropaeolum peregrinum, is a flowering vine native to Peru and Ecuador. It belongs to the family of Nasturtiums and is sometimes referred to as Canary nasturtium. This plant is grown as an annual ornamental due to its sensitivity to frost, particularly in temperate regions.
Contrary to its name, the Canary Creeper is a fast-growing plant when provided with full sunlight. It can grow up to 12 feet in length within a year. The flowers of the Canary Creeper are unique and attractive to hummingbirds. They have two large, yellow, upper fringed petals resembling canary wings, hence the name. The three smaller, lower petals below are spurred and have reddish spots at the base. The leaves of the plant are small, green, and 5-lobed.
Canary Creeper flowers bloom from mid-summer until fall, as long as they receive full sunlight and adequate water. They can climb trellises, arbors, or grow well in hanging baskets. They can also be planted near other plants without causing harm, unlike some other climbing vines.
Common Name: Canary Creeper, Canarybird Flower, Canarybird Vine, Canary Nasturtium
Scientific Name: Tropaeolum peregrinum
Growing Zones: 10-11
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Moist but well-drained
Colors: Yellow
Height: 10-12 feet tall
Spread: 1-2 feet wide
Plant Type: Tender perennial, annual
13. Cleome
Cleome, commonly known as spider flowers or spider plants, are herbaceous annual or perennial plants, depending on the climate where they’re grown. They get their name from the stamens of their blossoms, which resemble multiple “spidery legs.”
Cleomes come in various varieties, some with thorns and some without. They can grow tall, up to five feet, or reach a height of only two feet. What they have in common are their attractive pink, purple, and white flowers, some with a pleasant scent, which are highly appealing to hummingbirds and bees.
Caring for cleomes is relatively easy. They require well-drained soil and full sunlight, though established plants can tolerate less watering. Cleomes bloom from early summer until frost, and their dead flowers make way for thin green seedpods that turn brown and disperse seeds. These seeds can be collected and used to plant cleomes in other parts of your backyard.
Common Name: Cleomes, Spider Flower, Rocky Mountain Bee Plant, Stinking Clover
Scientific Name: Cleome (Cleomaceae family)
Growing Zones: 10-11
Sun: Full sun, partial sun
Soil: Average, well-drained
Colors: White, pink, rose, lavender
Height: 1.5-5 feet tall
Spread: 1-2 feet wide
Plant Type: Annual
14. Flowering Tobacco
Flowering tobacco plants belong to the Nicotiana family, a group of herbaceous tobacco plants. While they are related to true tobacco plants, they are primarily grown as ornamental plants and come in various varieties.
For fragrant flowering tobacco, popular options include Nicotiana sylvestris or Nicotiana alata. These varieties emit a jasmine fragrance in the evenings. Nicotiana sylvestris has wide, oblong leaves with a central flower spike that can grow several feet tall. It produces numerous tubular, pendant white or cream flowers that bloom from June until the first frost. Nicotiana alata, on the other hand, features tubular white star-shaped flowers that emit a sweet perfume at night.
Flowering tobacco is easy to plant and grow, requiring full sun or partial shade and well-draining soil. Although they are considered annual plants and may be short-lived, they self-seed, allowing you to enjoy them in subsequent years. However, it’s important to protect them from extreme cold and heat.
These tube-like flowers and fragrances make flowering tobacco a great attraction for hummingbirds.
Common Name: Flowering Tobacco, Jasmine Tobacco
Scientific Name: Nicotiana (Nicotiana family)
Growing Zones: 10-11
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Soil: Organically rich, moist, well-draining
Colors: White, yellow, pink, red, yellow-green, purple
Height: 6-12 inches, 1-3 feet, 3-8 feet, 8-20 feet tall (varies by variety)
Spread: 6 inches to 10 feet (varies by variety)
Plant Type: Annual
15. Fuchsia
Fuchsias are bright and hardy perennials that provide nectar for hummingbirds throughout the summer. They look especially stunning in pots and containers, with their beautiful flowers cascading over the edges.
Hardy varieties of fuchsias are easy to grow in most soils and require very little maintenance, making them a great addition to any garden. They prefer dappled shade and moderate temperatures, making them an ideal choice for shadier areas of your patio.
After flowering, pinch off the growing tips and fertilize every two weeks during the growing season. In colder areas, fuchsias may need to be brought indoors during winter.
Common Name: Fuchsia
Scientific Name: Fuchsia
Growing Zones: 6-11
Sun: Partial sun to shade
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Colors: Pink, purple, white, orange, blue
Height: 1-3 feet
Spread: 1-5 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
16. Passionflower
Passionflowers, also known as passion vines, belong to the Passiflora genus, which includes approximately 550 species of flowering plants. These unique flowers have tendril vines and an exotic floral structure that attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. One notable example is the Sword-billed Hummingbird, which has evolved to extract nectar from the long corollas of the Passiflora mixta.
Passionflowers are known for their exotic and alien appearance. They derive their name from the belief that their unusual structure symbolizes the Passion of Christ.
Passion flowers are stunning additions to pots, trellises, walls, and fences. They come in various colors, including white, pink, red, purple, and blue. They thrive under full sunlight or at least four hours of sunlight each day. Well-drained organic soil also promotes their fast growth.
When a hummingbird successfully pollinates a passionflower, the fruit begins to develop. Passionfruit can be round or elongated, depending on the variety. One passionflower, Passiflora incarnata, is commonly known as “Maypop” due to the sound it makes when its fruit is crushed.
Common Name: Passionflower Maypop, True Passionflower, Wild Apricot, Wild Passion Vine, Passion Vine
Scientific Name: Passiflora
Growing Zones: 5-9
Sun: Full sun (at least 4 hours)
Soil: Well-drained, organic
Colors: White, pink, red, purple, blue
Height: 6-30 feet tall
Spread: 3-6 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial vine
17. Desert Willow
The Desert Willow, scientifically known as Chilopsis linearis, is a large deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Southwestern United States and Mexico. Its name may stem from its willow-like leaves, but it actually belongs to the catalpa family.
In its natural habitat along desert washes and riverbanks, the Desert Willow thrives under full sunlight and is drought-tolerant. It benefits from occasional watering, such as during flash floods in arroyos, to encourage new flower growth.
Desert Willow flowers usually appear in shades of lavender, pink, purple, and white. Blooming from May to June, these flowers hang from the tree’s branch ends. Although small (around 1 to 1.5 inches long), they can be prolific with proper care.
After the flowers fade, Desert Willows develop long, thin, brown seed pods that measure 4 to 8 inches. These pods usually appear in autumn and split open to release the seeds, which can be collected for propagation.
Desert Willows are low-maintenance once established and attract hummingbirds with their pretty flowers. Their drought tolerance and minimal pruning needs make them a standout choice.
Common Name: Desert Willow
Scientific Name: Chilopsis linearis
Growing Zones: 5-9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained soil
Colors: Lavender to light pink
Height: 20-25 feet tall
Spread: 15-20 feet wide
Plant Type: Perennial, Deciduous large shrub or small tree
18. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus comprises a large group of 700 species of flowering trees and shrubs. While most species are native to Australia, some have made their way to regions like Hawaii, California, Arizona, western Washington, western Oregon, and southwestern British Columbia.
Eucalyptus trees, also known as gum trees or stringybark trees, are considered invasive species in certain areas, such as California, due to their high flammability. Thus, it’s important not to plant them in fire-prone states.
While wild eucalyptus trees can reach heights of up to 800 feet, there are smaller backyard varieties like the Red-Flowering Gum (Eucalyptus ficifolia) and the Silver Dollar Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus cinerea), which can grow from 20 to 50 feet tall, providing good shade.
Eucalyptus trees can grow in various soil types as long as the soil is well-drained. However, they thrive in regions with tropical temperatures (zones 8-11)
and are not well-suited for cold climates.
Eucalyptus flowers technically have no petals, but numerous stamens that are released from their petal-like enclosure. They can be white, yellow, orange, pink, or red, and their abundant nectar attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Bees can use the nectar to produce eucalyptus honey, while hummingbirds make their nests in eucalyptus trees.
Common Name: Eucalyptus, Gum Tree
Scientific Name: Eucalyptus
Growing Zones: 7-11
Sun: Full Sun
Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic
Colors: White, yellow, orange, pink, red
Height: Up to 120 feet tall (note: Pacific Northwest varieties), 820 feet (250 m) (Wild)
Spread: 25-57 feet wide (note: Pacific Northwest varieties), 500 feet (150 m) (Wild)
Plant Type: Perennial, Evergreen Tree
19. Impatiens
Impatiens are bright and colorful annuals that thrive in dark and shady areas, attracting hummingbirds. They prefer moist and well-draining soil and are well-suited for hanging on porches or in shady spots.
Typically, impatiens are purchased as plants in trays and planted closely together to create a dense mat of flowers and leaves. Alternatively, they can be grown from seeds collected from existing plants. Sow the seeds indoors around 10 weeks before the last frost as they take some time to flower. Cuttings can also be taken in the fall and grown indoors until the frost has passed.
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
20. Azalea
Color Code: 233c-234c
BOS 2016, #AZA-102
Setting, Container
09.15 West Chicago, Mark Widhalm
AZA-102_02_02.JPG
BOS15-19841.JPG
North America is home to 16 native species of azaleas, which are deciduous and drop all their leaves in the fall, regrowing them in spring. These native species primarily flower in colors ranging from white and pink to yellow and orange.
Azaleas are part of the Rhododendron family. One distinguishing characteristic is the number of stamens, with azaleas typically having five stamens compared to the 10 found in rhododendrons. Additionally, azaleas have smaller and thinner leaves, while rhododendrons feature larger, evergreen foliage.
Asian azaleas are predominantly evergreen, exhibiting colors from white to purple to red, but they do not include yellow varieties. While called evergreen, they still shed some leaves in fall. They grow two sets of leaves: spring leaves that drop in fall and summer leaves that remain throughout winter.
Azaleas thrive in loose, moist, and well-draining acidic soil with a pH of 4.5-6.0. If they show signs of drooping due to excessive sun exposure or wind, revive them with slow watering.
Azalea flowers have a delightful fragrance that attracts hummingbirds. The nectar they provide entices hummingbirds to return to your backyard.
Common Name: Azalea
Scientific Name: Rhododendron
Growing Zones: 7-9
Sun: Filtered sunlight, partial shade
Soil: Well-drained, acidic
Colors: Pink, lavender, yellow-orange, white
Height: Up to 10 feet
Spread: 3-5 feet
Plant Type: Perennial, Evergreen, Deciduous shrubs
21. Crape Myrtle
Crape Myrtle, or crepe myrtle, belongs to the Lythraceae family and has the Latin name Lagerstroemia. These deciduous and evergreen shrubs are native to India, Asia, and Australia and are often referred to as crepe myrtle due to their crepe-like textured flower petals.
Crape Myrtle trees and shrubs make wonderful additions to backyard landscapes with their large, vibrant flowers, peeling bark in winter, and foliage that changes color in the fall. There is a wide range of varieties to choose from, including single and multi-stemmed trees, smaller shrubs, and even dwarf trees that reach heights of 2 to 5 feet.
To ensure successful growth, it is best to plant Crape Myrtles in the fall or early spring, allowing their roots to establish before the harsh winter or summer months. These plants require at least 6 hours of full sunlight to encourage abundant and full blooms, which typically appear in mid-May and early June.
Proper pruning is essential to promote profuse flowering in Crape Myrtle trees. Carefully remove old and dead branches, as well as any crisscrossing or inward-growing branches. Shrubs generally require minimal pruning, mainly to remove old or dead branches.
With their vibrant-colored flowers and varying heights, Crape Myrtles are highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, making them a delightful addition to any garden.
Common Name: Crape Myrtle or crepe myrtle
Scientific Name: Lagerstroemia
Growing Zones: 7 – 10
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Moist soil
Colors: Dark purple, dark red, bright pink, magenta, and white
Height: Trees 15 – 20 feet, shrubs 5 – 7 feet
Spread: Trees 15 – 20 feet, shrubs 5 – 7 feet
Plant Type: Perennial, Deciduous shrubs or trees
22. Salvia
Salvia is a fantastic perennial choice for attracting hummingbirds to your garden. With over 1000 species belonging to the mint family, salvias are known for their drought resistance and easy care.
These plants have evolved alongside hummingbirds in the Americas, utilizing the birds’ long bills to access the flowers and deposit pollen on their heads while receiving rich nectar in return.
Salvias put on a splendid display of flowers and tubular blossoms throughout the summer, ensuring a steady stream of hummingbird visitors.
Many native species of salvias are drought-tolerant and thrive in the heat of the South. While salvias can withstand dry conditions, watering thoroughly once a week during extended dry periods is beneficial.
Also known as sage plants, salvias can be grown as annuals, but perennial varieties are available as well. Deadheading the flowers during the summer promotes more blooms, while leaving some flowers at the end of the season allows for self-seeding.
When selecting salvias to attract hummingbirds, choose varieties with red, pink, and orange-colored flowers. While native species are preferred, European salvias are hardier and suitable for northern regions, extending the range of nectar sources for hummingbirds.
Common Name: Salvia
Scientific Name: Salvia
Growing Zones: 4 – 10
Sun: Full sun, but some tolerate partial shade
Soil: Well-drained
Colors: Red, pink, purple, blue, white, yellow
Height: 1 – 6 feet
Spread: 1 – 6 feet
Plant Type: Annual, Perennial
23. Mimosa
Mimosa, also known as the Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin), is a beautiful flowering tree that can attract hummingbirds to your garden. Native to Asia and the Middle East, mimosa trees are known for their feathery, fern-like leaves and showy, pink fluffy flowers that resemble powder puffs.
Mimosa trees thrive in warm climates and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy or clay soils. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. These trees are highly adaptable and can even tolerate drought conditions once established.
The fragrant pink flowers of the mimosa tree bloom from late spring to early summer, providing a rich source of nectar for hummingbirds. The flowers are attractive to hummingbirds due to their shape and abundant nectar production.
Mimosa trees can grow up to 30 feet in height with a spread of about 30 feet. They have a fast growth rate, making them an excellent choice for quickly establishing a hummingbird-friendly habitat in your garden.
To ensure the health and vigor of your mimosa tree, regular pruning is recommended. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and maintain a desirable shape. Be aware that mimosa trees can be invasive in some regions, so it’s important to check local regulations before planting.
Common Name: Mimosa or Silk Tree
Scientific Name: Albizia julibrissin
Growing Zones: 6 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Adaptable to various soil types
Colors: Pink
Height: Up to 30 feet
Spread: Up to 30 feet
Plant Type: Deciduous tree
24. Bee Balm
Bee Balm, scientifically known as Monarda, is a perennial plant that not only attracts hummingbirds but also supports the vital role of bees in pollination. Bee Balm plants produce vibrant flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, and white, which are highly appealing to both hummingbirds and bees.
Native to North America, Bee Balm plants thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are known for their striking flower clusters that resemble colorful tufts atop sturdy stems. These flowers contain a high amount of nectar, attracting hummingbirds from afar.
Aside from their attractiveness to hummingbirds, Bee Balm plants are also valued for their aromatic foliage, which emits a pleasant minty scent when brushed against. The leaves can be used to make herbal teas, and the flowers are a beautiful addition to cut flower arrangements.
Bee Balm plants require regular watering, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist. Regular deadheading of the spent flowers encourages continuous blooming and prevents self-seeding. To maintain healthy growth, divide the plants every 2 to 3 years in early spring or fall.
Common Name: Bee Balm
Scientific Name: Monarda
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil
Colors: Red, pink, purple, white
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
These plants, including Crape Myrtle, Salvia, Mimosa, and Bee Balm, are excellent choices for attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Their vibrant flowers, high nectar production, and attractive features make them irresistible to these tiny, fascinating birds.