There exists an abundant array of flowers that possess an allure for hummingbirds, yet it is imperative to discover flora capable of enduring and prospering amidst the prevailing climatic conditions. Should the weather prove excessively scorching or bitterly frigid, the plants will succumb or exhibit insufficient growth to produce the essential flowers, which hummingbirds rely upon for nectar gathering.
In order to ascertain suitable plant choices, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) devised a map partitioning the nation into 13 distinct zones based on average minimum temperatures. Moreover, within each state, diverse zones emerge. The vitality of plants hinges upon the specific zones they thrive in, as they possess the capacity to withstand minimal temperatures while failing to endure excessively cold climates.
In the state of Maine, winters are marked by chilly temperatures, while the summers are pleasantly warm without reaching excessive heat levels. Notably, the coastal regions of southern Maine experience slightly milder winters compared to their northern counterparts. Coastal areas are categorized as hardiness zone 5, central regions as zone 4, and northern Maine, being the coldest, falls within zone 3.
Additionally, some plants may struggle when confronted with excessive heat. To address this concern, the American Horticultural Society has developed a plant heat-zone map, which illustrates the average number of days per year during which temperatures exceed 86 degrees Fahrenheit.
Maine, fortunately, does not encounter a profusion of scorching days and predominantly occupies zones 2 to 5 on the plant heat-zone map. Consequently, it is the cold winters rather than the heat that primarily impacts plants favored by hummingbirds.
To ensure optimal conditions for hummingbird-friendly plants in Maine, thorough assessments have been conducted, accounting for both the cold and heat zones. Consequently, the selected plants not only boast resplendent, nectar-laden flowers that hummingbirds adore but also possess the fortitude to thrive amidst the region’s distinctive weather patterns.
However, it is worth noting that plants listed within the colder zones 5-6 may not withstand the harsher winters of zones 3 or 4 in Maine unless provided with adequate protection.
Therefore, it is advisable to cultivate as many of these floral species as possible to entice the presence of hummingbirds in the captivating state of Maine.
Maine Hardiness Zones 3 and 4 – Plants to Attract Hummingbirds
1. Trailing Nasturtiums
With their deep flowers and rich nectar, trailing nasturtiums are ideal for creating hanging baskets that hummingbirds will love. These edible flowers come in various types, from trailing to bush varieties. Plant the seeds after the last frosts and provide proper watering and deadheading during the growing season.
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. Zinnias
Native to North American scrub and dry grasslands, zinnias are vibrant flowering shrubs. They belong to the sunflower tribe and the daisy family, showcasing single, double, or semi-double petals. Zinnia elegans, a classic variety, is popular for backyards and gardens. It reaches a height of 4 feet, blooms in various colors, and attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Plant zinnias directly in well-draining soil under full sun.
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. Aromatic Agastache
Agastache, also known as “hummingbird mints” and “Giant hyssops,” are herbaceous perennials native to North America. Their attractive flowers, with striking purple and red colors, grow in clusters and entice hummingbirds. Start Agastache as indoor plants in May and transplant them into flower beds during summer. They thrive in full sun, require regular watering initially, and become drought-tolerant once established.
Common Name: Agastache, Hummingbird Mint, Hyssop
Scientific Name: Agastache
Growing Zones: 3 – 10
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Lean, 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, a captivating flowering plant, belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. Its name stems from the fact that its flowers open in the morning and close during the heat of the day. Morning glories bloom in various colors, such as white, pink, purple, and blue, and they attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. These annual vines thrive in full sun and require moist, well-drained soil.
Common Name: 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. Colorful Impatiens
Impatiens are vibrant annuals that brighten up shady areas and attract hummingbirds. These plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and deep shade, making them suitable for hanging on porches. Start impatiens from nursery-bought plants or from seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Once the danger of frost has passed, transplant them into your garden or containers. Impatiens come in various colors, including red, pink, purple, orange, and white, providing a beautiful display while attracting hummingbirds.
Common Name: Impatiens
Scientific Name: Impatiens walleriana
Growing Zones: Annuals in 2-11, Perennials in 10-11
Sun: Shade to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, orange, white
Height: 6 – 24 inches
Spread: 6 – 18 inches
Plant Type: Annual, Perennial
6. Cardinal Flower
Cardinal flowers are native to North America and are named for their bright red flowers, resembling the robes of Catholic cardinals. These perennial plants are ideal for attracting hummingbirds with their tubular blooms. Cardinal flowers prefer moist soil and partial shade, making them suitable for woodland gardens or along the edges of ponds and streams. Plant them in early spring or fall for best results.
Common Name: Cardinal Flower
Scientific Name: Lobelia cardinalis
Growing Zones: 2 – 9
Sun: Partial shade
Soil: Moist
Colors: Red
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
7. Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as monarda or bergamot, is a perennial plant with showy, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. It comes in various colors, including red, pink, purple, and white. Bee balm thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil. Plant them in early spring or fall and provide adequate spacing to allow air circulation, as they can be prone to powdery mildew.
Common Name: Bee Balm, Monarda, Bergamot
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 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
These are just a few examples of plants that can attract hummingbirds to your garden in Maine’s hardiness zones 3 and 4. Remember to provide suitable growing conditions for each plant, including proper sunlight, soil, and watering requirements. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a haven for hummingbirds and enjoy their beauty and presence.
8. Salvia
Salvia, also known as sage, is a genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. They are known for their vibrant and long-lasting flowers that come in shades of red, purple, blue, and pink. Salvia attracts hummingbirds with its tubular-shaped blooms and aromatic foliage. These plants thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. They are drought-tolerant once established but appreciate regular watering during dry spells.
Common Name: Salvia, Sage
Scientific Name: Salvia
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, purple, blue, pink
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Annual or perennial
9. Trumpet Vine
Trumpet vine, also known as Campsis, is a vigorous climbing vine that produces stunning trumpet-shaped flowers. The bright and showy blossoms, often in shades of orange or red, are irresistible to hummingbirds. Trumpet vine is a fast-growing plant that requires sturdy support, such as a trellis or fence, to climb on. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. Keep in mind that trumpet vine can be invasive, so it’s important to monitor its growth and prune it regularly to keep it in check.
Common Name: Trumpet Vine, Campsis
Scientific Name: Campsis
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Orange, red
Height: Up to 40 feet
Spread: Varies depending on the support
Plant Type: Perennial vine
10. Red Hot Poker
Red hot poker, scientifically known as Kniphofia, is a striking perennial plant with tall spikes of tubular flowers that resemble fiery torches. The vibrant colors, including shades of red, orange, and yellow, are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Red hot poker plants thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. They are drought-tolerant once established and can add a dramatic touch to your garden or landscape.
Common Name: Red Hot Poker, Torch Lily
Scientific Name: Kniphofia
Growing Zones: 5 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, orange, yellow
Height: 2 – 5 feet
Spread: 1 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
Remember to choose plants that are suitable for your specific hardiness zones and provide the necessary care and maintenance to ensure their healthy growth. By incorporating a variety of these hummingbird-friendly plants in your garden, you can create a haven that not only attracts these beautiful birds but also adds color and charm to your outdoor space.
11. Bee Balm
Bee balm, also known as Monarda, is a colorful and aromatic perennial plant that is highly attractive to both bees and hummingbirds. It features showy, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, and white, which bloom atop tall stems. The nectar-rich flowers provide a delightful food source for hummingbirds. Bee balm plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They require regular watering to keep the soil moist and can benefit from deadheading to promote continuous blooming.
Common Name: Bee Balm, Monarda
Scientific Name: Monarda
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, white
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
12. Cardinal Flower
Cardinal flower, scientifically known as Lobelia cardinalis, is a striking perennial plant with vibrant red, tubular flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds. The flowers bloom on tall spikes, adding vertical interest to the garden. Cardinal flowers thrive in moist soil and prefer partial shade to full sun. They require regular watering and benefit from mulching to maintain soil moisture. With their vivid color and ability to attract hummingbirds, cardinal flowers are a valuable addition to any garden.
Common Name: Cardinal Flower
Scientific Name: Lobelia cardinalis
Growing Zones: 2 – 9
Sun: Partial shade to full sun
Soil: Moist
Colors: Red
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
13. Fuchsia
Fuchsia is a genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. These graceful and delicate plants produce pendulous flowers in a wide range of colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, and white. The unique shape of the flowers, with their long, tubular corollas and vibrant sepals, makes them irresistible to hummingbirds. Fuchsias prefer partial shade and well-draining soil. They require regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Common Name: Fuchsia
Scientific Name: Fuchsia
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Partial shade
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, white
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Annual or perennial
14. Penstemon
Penstemon, also known as beardtongue, is a diverse genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. These plants feature tubular flowers in various colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, and blue. The flowers’ shape and nectar content make them highly attractive to hummingbirds. Penstemons prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They are generally drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them a great choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds to their landscapes.
Common Name: Penstemon, Beardtongue
Scientific Name: Penstemon
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, blue
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Annual or perennial
15. Lantana
Lantana is a genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. These plants are well-known for their clusters of small, tubular flowers that come in a wide array of colors,
including shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple. The colorful flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds. Lantanas thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. They are heat-tolerant and drought-tolerant once established, making them a suitable choice for gardens in warm climates.
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
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Annual or perennial
By incorporating these hummingbird-friendly plants into your garden, you can create a haven that not only attracts these delightful birds but also adds beauty and color to your outdoor space. Remember to choose plants that are suitable for your growing zone and provide the necessary care to help them thrive.
16. Salvia
Salvia, commonly known as sage, is a diverse genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. These plants produce vibrant tubular flowers in shades of red, purple, pink, and blue, which are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Salvia plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They are generally drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them a popular choice for hummingbird gardens.
Common Name: Salvia, Sage
Scientific Name: Salvia
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, purple, pink, blue
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Annual or perennial
17. Columbine
Columbine, scientifically known as Aquilegia, is a perennial plant that produces unique and delicate flowers in various colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, yellow, and white. The flowers have long spurs and an interesting shape that attracts hummingbirds. Columbine plants prefer partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil. They require regular watering, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil evenly moist.
Common Name: Columbine
Scientific Name: Aquilegia
Growing Zones: 3 – 9
Sun: Partial shade to full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, yellow, white
Height: 1 – 3 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
18. Coral Bells
Coral bells, also known as Heuchera, are perennial plants prized for their attractive foliage and delicate flowers. The bell-shaped flowers come in various colors, including shades of red, pink, and white, and provide a nectar source for hummingbirds. Coral bells prefer partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil. They require regular watering, particularly during dry spells, to maintain soil moisture.
Common Name: Coral Bells
Scientific Name: Heuchera
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Partial shade to full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, white
Height: 1 – 3 feet
Spread: 1 – 2 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
19. Trumpet Vine
Trumpet vine, scientifically known as Campsis radicans, is a vigorous and fast-growing woody vine that produces trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These showy flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Trumpet vine plants thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. They are tolerant of various soil conditions and can withstand periods of drought once established.
Common Name: Trumpet Vine
Scientific Name: Campsis radicans
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, orange, yellow
Height: Up to 30 feet
Spread: 5 – 10 feet
Plant Type: Perennial vine
20. Agastache
Agastache, commonly known as hyssop or hummingbird mint, is a genus of perennial plants that produce spikes of tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, and orange. These fragrant flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Agastache plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for water-wise gardens.
Common Name: Agastache, Hyssop, Hummingbird
Mint
Scientific Name: Agastache
Growing Zones: Varies depending on the species
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: Red, pink, purple, orange
Height: Varies depending on the species
Spread: Varies depending on the species
Plant Type: Perennial
21. The magnificent Tulip Tree
The magnificent Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) is the North American equivalent of the Chinese Liriodendron chinense. Known as the yellow-poplar, this fast-growing and robust tree is famous for being the tallest hardwood tree in the eastern region.
Its vibrant yellow flowers, brimming with nectar, provide a lavish feast for hummingbirds.
During springtime, the Tulip Tree showcases tulip-shaped flowers measuring around 2 inches in length and width. With six greenish-yellow petals and an orange band near the base, these flowers exhibit an enchanting visual allure. The orange band, when viewed from above, highlights the stamens in the center, captivating hummingbirds and other pollinators.
The Tulip Tree’s leaves are equally captivating. Star-shaped, smooth, and glossy, they range from 3 to 6 inches in length. While they maintain a vibrant green hue like many trees, they transform into golden or vibrant yellow tones during the fall. Additionally, their stems emit a delightful fragrance.
Due to their lofty heights, reaching around 50 feet or higher, these beauties are not easily spotted by many. However, with proper pruning, they can be maintained at smaller sizes. The Tulip Tree thrives in moist, well-drained soil and prefers a generous amount of sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours to flourish.
Common Name: Tulip Tree
Scientific Name: Liriodendron tulipifera
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Moist, well-drained
Colors: Green-yellow, orange
Height: 70 to 90 feet
Spread: 40 feet
Plant Type: Deciduous perennial tree
22. The Bee Balm
The Bee Balm plant, a member of the Monarda mint family (Lamiaceae), earned its name due to its historical use as an antiseptic balm for treating bee stings. Native Americans also brewed its leaves into tea, leading to the name “Oswego Tea.”
Monarda plants are beloved not only for their aromatic minty leaves but also for their vibrant, exotic-looking flowers that irresistibly attract hummingbirds. The scarlet-red variety, Monarda didyma, is particularly favored by these tiny birds. These tubular, bright-red flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Bee Balm thrives under full sun but can tolerate partial shade during hot weather. It prefers moist, well-drained soil, so regular watering may be necessary depending on the climate.
Planting Bee Balm in your garden offers multiple advantages. Enjoy fragrant leaves that enhance salads and tea. Revel in the brilliance of colorful, long-blooming flowers that beautify your outdoor space and entice hummingbirds and other pollinators. The leaves can even be used to create your own medicinal essential oils.
Common Name: Bee Balm, Bergamot, Horsemint, Oswego Tea
Scientific Name: Monarda (Lamiaceae family)
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained
Colors: White, pink, red, purple
Height: 2 – 4 feet
Spread: 2 – 3 feet
Plant Type: Perennial
23. The Trumpet Honeysuckle
The Trumpet Honeysuckle, scientifically known as Lonicera sempervirens, is a rapid-growing twining vine belonging to the Caprifoliaceae family. This versatile vine is perfect for adorning fences, arbors, trellises, or even sprawling along the ground.
Exercise caution, as some honeysuckle varieties, like the Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), can
be invasive. Stick to the Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) and verify its suitability for your region.
The Trumpet Honeysuckle allures hummingbirds with its striking orange-red flowers. When in bloom, these flowers unveil bright yellow stamens. Growing in clusters of 10-20 at the end of stems, they offer a breathtaking sight against the vine’s dark green, oblong leaves.
Apart from its extensive flowering season, the Trumpet Honeysuckle thrives under full sunlight, showcasing its exquisite blooms. While it can tolerate partial shade, it may produce fewer flowers compared to its sun-bathed counterparts.
Common Name: Trumpet Honeysuckle
Scientific Name: Lonicera sempervirens
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Soil: Medium moisture, well-drained, organically rich
Colors: Orange-red
Height: 8 – 15 feet
Spread: 3 – 6 feet
Plant Type: Semi-evergreen, deciduous, evergreen vine, perennial
24. The Eastern Redbud
The Eastern Redbud, scientifically known as Cercis Canadensis, is a large deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. Celebrated as an ornamental specimen plant, it boasts twisted trunks, zigzag branches, beautiful flowers, and large, heart-shaped leaves. Its moderate size makes it a perfect fit for small to medium-sized yards.
The Eastern Redbud’s unique feature is its ability to produce flowers before its leaves in early spring. These half-inch-wide flowers cluster on branches, each containing 4-8 blossoms. Only hummingbirds and long-tongued bees, such as blueberry bees and carpenter bees, can access their nectaries.
With flower colors ranging from light pink to deep magenta, some even displaying a purplish tinge, the Eastern Redbud’s vibrant blooms stand out against its dark branches and trunk. This captivating display lasts for 2 to 3 weeks before the arrival of fruits.
Following the bloom period, the Eastern Redbud produces fruit pods resembling bean pods. Initially green, they eventually turn brown as winter approaches.
Winter buds of the Eastern Redbud unfurl into heart-shaped, bright green leaves with a hint of red. Glossy and prominently veined, they create a stunning foliage display.
While the Eastern Redbud can tolerate full sun and partial shade, ample sunlight encourages profuse blooming. Although it can withstand drought conditions, regular watering is beneficial. Pruning young trees helps shape their growth and enhances their structure.
Common Name: Eastern Redbud
Scientific Name: Cercis Canadensis
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained
Colors: Pink, reddish, purple
Height: 20 to 30 feet
Spread: 25 to 35 feet
Plant Type: Deciduous tree, perennial
25. The Hyacinth Bean
The Hyacinth Bean, scientifically known as Lablab Purpureus, belongs to the bean vine family, Fabaceae. Originally from Africa, it is cultivated as an ornamental plant and a food source in Asia.
In the United States, the Hyacinth Bean is predominantly used for its ornamental value, showcasing pinkish-lavender blossoms and captivating purple seed pods. It is often referred to as the Jefferson Bean, as Bernard McMahon, Thomas Jefferson’s nurseryman, supposedly sold it to him in 1804.
To obtain high-quality Hyacinth Bean flowers, plant the seeds in your backyard during warm spring weather. This yields an abundance of flowers and robust vine growth. When provided with proper support, Hyacinth Bean vines can
reach heights of up to 25 feet.
The flowering period of Hyacinth Beans extends from summer to fall. The flowers form clusters along the stalks, displaying shades of white, pink, lavender, or purple. Once the flowers fade, attention shifts to the attractive purple seedpods. Elongated in shape, these pods contain 2-3 seeds, but they are toxic and should not be consumed.
Hummingbirds are particularly fond of these vibrant purple flowers, making them a delightful addition to your garden. Hyacinth Beans are surprisingly low-maintenance. They thrive in full sunlight, require suitable support for vine growth, and benefit from regular watering during their early stages.
While they can be perennial in mild climates, treating them as annuals and collecting seeds for future planting is advisable in colder regions.
Common Name: Hyacinth Bean, Indian Bean, Egyptian Bean, Bataw, Australian Pea
Scientific Name: Lablab Purpureus
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun (no partial shade)
Soil: Well-draining
Colors: White, pink, lavender, purple
Height: 10 – 25 feet
Spread: 3 – 6 feet
Plant Type: Annual
26. The Trumpet Vine
The Trumpet Vine, scientifically known as Campsis radicans, hails from the Bignoniaceae family and is native to the eastern United States. This fast-growing and fast-spreading flowering vine can become invasive in western states if not diligently pruned. For regions where invasiveness is a concern, consider hybrid varieties.
Also referred to as the Hummingbird Vine, it earns its name due to the irresistible attraction it holds for hummingbirds when it bursts into bloom.
Some enthusiasts also call it the Trumpet Creeper, as it has a tendency to creep into crevices and cling to shingles. It proves useful for covering rock piles and tree stumps, thanks to its sturdy woody stems. However, caution must be exercised as it can cause damage to foundations, fences, and trees.
The Trumpet Vine requires minimal care to thrive. It flourishes under full sunlight, boasting abundant flowers with at least 6 hours of direct light. While it can tolerate partial shade, the flower production may decrease. Regular watering is not essential, as maintaining moist soil is sufficient.
Pruning is crucial to control the Trumpet Vine’s growth and prevent excessive spreading. Late fall is an ideal time for pruning, cutting it down to ground level. With ample sunlight, regrowth occurs sooner than expected.
Common Name: Trumpet Vine, Trumpet Creeper, Cow Itch
Scientific Name: Campsis radicans
Growing Zones: 4 – 9
Sun: Full sun, partial shade
Soil: Average, moist but well-drained
Colors: Orange, red, yellow
Height: 25 – 40 feet
Spread: 5 – 10 feet
Plant Type: Deciduous woody vine, perennial
27. Clematis
Clematis belongs to a diverse group of approximately 300 species of flowering vines in the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae. Originating from Japan and China, Clematis is highly popular as an ornamental plant due to its wide range of colors, suitability for various climates, and its ability to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators to your garden.
If you seek a vibrant and colorful display for your trellis, arbor, or fence, Clematis is an excellent choice. Its flowers, predominantly star-shaped and available in various sizes, boast an extensive color palette, including white, yellow, pink, blue, purple, and dual-colored varieties. Depending on the specific variety, they bloom either in spring or late summer.
Aside from their color diversity,
Clematis exhibits different flower types, ranging from loose clusters to bell-shaped or flat, open blooms. The larger flowers can reach sizes of 6 to 10 inches, captivating both hummingbirds and butterflies. Certain varieties even emit fragrances.
Clematis thrives under full sun, requiring a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight. However, their soil must remain consistently moist, ensuring they never dry out to guarantee the growth of abundant and magnificent flowers.
To support the growth of Clematis, choose a suitable structure. Larger varieties are well-suited for arbors, while smaller types can be trained on poles, fences, or trellises.
By providing ample sunlight for their leaves and shade for their roots, you will not only delight in their blossoms but also welcome a plethora of hummingbirds to your garden.
Common Name: Clematis, Woodbine, Old Man’s Beard
Scientific Name: Clematis
Growing Zones: 4 – 8
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Moist, well-drained
Colors: White, yellow, pink, blue, purple
Height: 2 – 5 feet, 8 – 12 feet, 20 – 30 feet
Spread: 2 – 6 feet wide
Plant Type: Woody deciduous, herbaceous, and evergreen vine, perennial
28. Foxglove
Foxglove is a splendid woodland flower that boasts tall stems adorned with bell-shaped blossoms. Thriving in shaded areas, it proves ideal for hummingbirds with their long bills and tongues.
Foxgloves are biennial plants, meaning they require two years of planting. During the first year, they do not produce flowers but focus on establishing themselves before blooming profusely in their second year. Luckily, they readily self-seed, allowing for a captivating display year after year.
Growing Foxgloves from seeds is a straightforward process, best done outdoors in late spring or late summer when temperatures are cooler.
Common Name: Foxgloves
Scientific Name: Digitalis
Growing Zones: 4 – 8
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Slightly acidic, well-drained but moist
Colors: Purple, pink, white
Height: 5 feet
Plant Type: Biennials
29. Lupin
Lupin, scientifically known as Lupinus, belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is cultivated for its ornamental value and as a food source, despite having some toxicity that can trigger allergic reactions in humans and animals.
The name “lupinus” originated from the belief that it voraciously consumed soil nutrients like a wolf. However, in reality, Lupin is a nitrogen-fixing plant, enriching the soil with nitrogen. Therefore, if you have plants that benefit from nitrogen as a fertilizer, Lupines provide a natural source.
With over 199 species of flowering plants, Lupines offer a diverse array of colorful flowers. Notably, the Texas bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis) is a popular variant in the United States, renowned for its abundant blue flower spikes. It is also commonly referred to as the bluebonnet.
Lupines are easily identifiable by their tall, vertical spikes of flowers. Wild varieties are often blue and white, while cultivated varieties showcase an array of colors, including blue, yellow, pink, red, and purple. These hybrids originate from Lupinus polyphyllus, crossbred with other variants.
Lupines, with their abundant and vibrant flowers, prove irresistible to hummingbirds. Blooming early in the spring when other flowers are still emerging, they provide an exclusive food source for these tiny birds.
Common Name: Lupin, Lupine, Bluebonnet
Scientific Name: Lupinus
Growing Zones: 4 – 8
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained
Colors: White, pink, red, yellow, blue, purple, bicolor
Height: 3 – 4 feet tall
Spread: 1 – 1.5 feet wide
Plant Type: Annual, perennial
30. The Red Buckeye
The Red Buckeye, scientifically known as Aesculus pavia, is a sizable shrub or small tree native to the Southeastern United States. Its other names include Scarlet Buckeye and Firecracker Plant. Depending on pruning, it can be single-trunked or multi-trunked.
The allure of the Red Buckeye lies in its numerous red, tubular flowers that grace its branches in the spring. These red flowers are typical of the Red Buckeye variety, but there is also a yellow-flowered variant known as Aesculus pavia flavescens.
The striking red flowers, rising upright from the foliage, are highly attractive to hummingbirds and bees.
The Red Buckeye’s leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the vibrant flowers. Composed of five leaflets stemming from a central point, they boast a glossy, shiny appearance, with a dark green color on the top and a whitish shade on the underside.
Red Buckeyes are low-maintenance plants that thrive in various soil textures, although they prefer moist and well-drained conditions. While they can tolerate shade, their growth may be stunted, resulting in smaller shrubs.
Despite its captivating appearance when in full bloom, caution must be exercised, as all parts of the Red Buckeye plant are poisonous to humans, including the bark, flowers, fruits, leaves, seeds, and stems.
Common Name: Red Buckeye
Scientific Name: Aesculus pavia
Growing Zones: 4 – 8
Sun: Full sun or partial shade
Soil: All soil textures
Colors: Red or yellow
Height: 15 – 20 feet tall
Spread: 15 – 25 feet wide
Plant Type: Deciduous flowering tree, perennial