23 Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds

Watching hummingbirds dart through the garden is one of the most magical experiences for any gardener. These tiny, energetic birds bring movement, color, and life to outdoor spaces while performing valuable pollination services that benefit your entire garden ecosystem.

While hummingbird feeders can attract these winged visitors, nothing beats the natural approach of planting flowers specifically chosen to meet their needs. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to tubular flowers in bright colors that hold abundant nectar, their primary food source to fuel their incredibly fast metabolism.

From spring-blooming perennials to summer annuals, here are 23 spectacular flowers that will transform your garden into a hummingbird paradise.

Azalea

Starting the season with spectacular color, azaleas create a dramatic backdrop for early hummingbird visits. These spring-flowering shrubs produce clusters of funnel-shaped blooms in shades ranging from delicate pink to vibrant red, with the latter being particularly attractive to hummingbirds.

What makes azaleas especially valuable is their bloom time, often coinciding with the return of migratory hummingbirds in many regions. The profusion of flowers provides abundant nectar when other food sources may still be scarce.

Native azalea varieties tend to be even more attractive to hummingbirds than their hybrid counterparts. For maximum wildlife benefit, look for species like the flame azalea or the sweet azalea with its fragrant white flowers.

Beardtongue

Penstemon, commonly called beardtongue, exemplifies the perfect hummingbird flower. The tubular blooms make accessing nectar difficult for many insects but ideal for the specialized bill of a hummingbird. These native perennials produce stunning spikes of flowers in shades of red, pink, purple, and white.

Their extended bloom period, often spanning late spring through summer, provides reliable nectar sources when hummingbirds need it most. The sturdy stems handle the birds’ quick movements with ease, making them practical additions to hummingbird gardens.

For maximum attraction, consider varieties like ‘Firebird’ with its brilliant red blooms or ‘Dark Towers’ with deep pink flowers contrasting against purple foliage. Beardtongue thrives in sunny locations with good drainage and moderate water, making it suitable for xeriscaping and traditional garden beds alike.

Bee Balm

Few perennials draw hummingbirds as reliably as bee balm (Monarda). The distinctive whorled flowers create landing platforms for bees and butterflies while offering perfectly-shaped nectar tubes for hovering hummingbirds. Their vibrant colors—particularly the reds and deep pinks—serve as visual beacons across the garden.

Beyond attracting wildlife, bee balm brings a striking architectural element to borders with its tiered blooms rising above aromatic foliage. The mint family fragrance deters many garden pests while adding sensory interest for gardeners.

For best results, plant bee balm in areas receiving morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. Regular division every few years maintains vigor and flowering.

Bleeding Heart

While most hummingbird favorites feature red coloration, bleeding heart (Dicentra) proves that form sometimes outweighs color in attraction. The distinctive heart-shaped blooms with their protruding “droplets” produce nectar accessible to hummingbirds’ specialized bills. The pendulous flowers in shades of pink, red, and white appear in early spring when many other nectar sources haven’t yet emerged.

Bleeding heart’s preference for shade makes it invaluable for woodland gardens or north-facing exposures where many sun-loving hummingbird plants struggle. Their graceful form adds a romantic touch to these often challenging garden areas.

The classic Dicentra spectabilis goes dormant by midsummer, so pair it with later-emerging perennials to maintain seasonal interest. For longer-lasting foliage, consider fringed bleeding heart (Dicentra eximia), which continues providing sporadic blooms throughout the growing season.

Butterfly Bush

Despite its name, butterfly bush (Buddleia) attracts hummingbirds just as effectively as its lepidopteran visitors. The long, cone-shaped flower panicles produce abundant nectar throughout summer and into fall, creating a reliable food source during critical pre-migration feeding periods.

The arching stems covered in blooms ranging from white and pink to purple and near-red create dramatic focal points in mixed borders. Their manageable size (especially newer, more compact cultivars) makes them suitable for smaller gardens where space is at a premium.

When selecting butterfly bush varieties, consider newer sterile cultivars that won’t self-seed aggressively. In some regions, traditional butterfly bush is invasive, so check local recommendations before planting. Regular deadheading extends the blooming period while preventing unwanted spread.

Cardinal Flower

If you could design the perfect hummingbird plant, it might look exactly like cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis). The intense scarlet blooms, perfectly shaped for hummingbird bills, contrast dramatically against dark green foliage. These native perennials create vertical interest with flower spikes reaching up to four feet tall in ideal conditions.

Unlike many bright-blooming perennials, cardinal flower thrives in partial shade and moist conditions, making it perfect for boggy areas, rain gardens, or pond edges. The late summer blooming period provides vital energy when many hummingbirds begin preparing for migration.

Despite its spectacular appearance, cardinal flower remains reasonably easy to grow as long as soil moisture remains consistent. For extended bloom periods, consider pairing it with the earlier-flowering blue lobelia which also attracts hummingbirds while adding color diversity to the garden.

Catmint

Catmint (Nepeta) proves that subtle flowers sometimes attract hummingbirds just as effectively as showier blooms. The lavender-blue flower spikes emerge in early summer and continue for months, especially when deadheaded regularly. While hummingbirds typically prefer red flowers, they can’t resist the abundant nectar catmint produces.

The ease of growing catmint makes it particularly valuable for beginning gardeners hoping to attract wildlife. Its drought tolerance, pest resistance, and long bloom period deliver maximum impact with minimal effort.

For best results, plant catmint in full sun with well-draining soil. Avoid excessive fertility, which can cause floppy growth.

Columbine

Columbine (Aquilegia) offers some of spring’s most architecturally interesting flowers, with distinctive spurred petals that have evolved specifically for hummingbird pollination. The nectar-filled spurs are perfectly shaped for the birds’ long bills, creating an exclusive feeding relationship other pollinators can’t access as easily.

Available in nearly every color imaginable, columbines provide options for any garden palette. The nodding flowers appear in spring on delicate stems above fern-like foliage, creating a sense of movement even when hummingbirds aren’t present.

Native columbine species tend to be particularly attractive to local hummingbird populations. Consider the Eastern red columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) with its red and yellow bicolor blooms or the Western columbine (Aquilegia formosa) with similar coloration but different growth habits depending on your region.

Coral Bells

While primarily grown for their colorful foliage, coral bells (Heuchera) produce delicate flower stalks covered in tiny bell-shaped blooms that attract hummingbirds throughout early summer. The small pink, red, or white flowers may not look substantial to human eyes, but they contain ample nectar for their hovering visitors.

The versatility of coral bells makes them invaluable in hummingbird gardens. Their shade tolerance allows nectar production in areas where sun-loving options won’t thrive. The evergreen or semi-evergreen foliage in shades ranging from deep purple to caramel and lime green adds year-round interest.

For maximum hummingbird appeal, select varieties with abundant flowering habits rather than those bred primarily for foliage. Plant in drifts where the collective blooms create more significant visual impact, drawing hummingbirds from greater distances.

Delphinium

Few flowers match the vertical drama of delphinium spires rising majestically at the back of perennial borders. The densely packed florets in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white create spectacular visual impact while providing abundant nectar for hummingbirds willing to hover alongside the tall stems.

The early to midsummer blooming period coincides with peak hummingbird activity in many regions. The substantial flower stalks ranging from 3 to 6 feet tall act as signposts visible from across the garden, drawing birds to investigate.

While delphiniums have a reputation for being somewhat challenging to grow, newer varieties offer improved heat tolerance and sturdier stems. Provide rich, well-draining soil, consistent moisture, and shelter from strong winds to maximize their performance and longevity.

Fireweed

Often overlooked in garden settings, fireweed (Chamaenerion angustifolium) deserves wider recognition for its wildlife value and striking appearance. This native perennial produces tall spikes of magenta-pink flowers that progress upward throughout summer, creating extended bloom periods that benefit late-season hummingbirds.

The natural growth habits of fireweed make it particularly valuable in larger landscape settings, meadow gardens, or naturalized areas where its spreading tendency becomes an asset rather than a concern. The flower spikes can reach 5 feet tall, creating dramatic vertical elements.

While fireweed prefers cooler climates, it adapts surprisingly well to various garden conditions as long as sufficient moisture is available. Its post-fire regeneration capabilities (hence the name) speak to its resilience in challenging environments.

Foxglove

The quintessential cottage garden plant, foxglove (Digitalis) creates an irresistible attraction for hummingbirds with its tubular, speckled blooms arranged vertically on dramatic spires. The pendant flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow provide perfect access points for hovering birds to insert their bills.

Most foxglove varieties are biennial, forming leafy rosettes in their first year before sending up flowering stalks in the second season. The statuesque bloomers can reach 4 feet or more, creating substantial vertical interest in partially shaded locations.

Allow foxgloves to self-seed for continuous presence in the garden, or plant new specimens each year for reliable blooms. The spotted throats of the flowers serve as natural nectar guides, drawing hummingbirds directly to the nectar source while adding visual interest to the garden.

Lantana

For gardeners in warmer climates, lantana delivers unmatched performance for attracting hummingbirds. The multi-colored cluster blooms appear continuously from spring until frost, providing reliable nectar sources throughout the growing season. The color-changing flowers—often shifting from yellow to orange, pink, or red as they mature—create captivating displays.

The tough nature of lantana makes it particularly valuable during summer heat when many other flowering plants struggle. Its drought tolerance, once established, ensures continuous blooming with minimal supplemental water.

For cooler climates, grow lantana as an annual or in containers that can be overwintered indoors.

Lupine

The dramatic flower spikes of lupine (Lupinus) create spectacular early summer displays while providing substantial nectar rewards for hummingbirds. The pea-family blooms in shades of blue, purple, pink, yellow, and bicolors rise above distinctive palmate foliage, creating architectural interest even before flowering begins.

Wild lupines support specialized pollinator relationships, with different species adapted to local hummingbird populations. The tower-like flower structures allow birds to systematically work their way up or down the spike, maximizing feeding efficiency.

For best results, plant lupines in full sun with well-draining soil. Most species prefer cooler summers and won’t perform well in hot, humid regions. Allow spent flower stalks to drop seeds naturally if you want volunteer seedlings, though note that hybrid colors won’t come true from seed.

Morning Glory

For vertical spaces like trellises, fences, or arbors, morning glory (Ipomoea) creates spectacular hummingbird feeding stations throughout summer and into fall. The trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white open with the morning light, providing early nectar sources when hummingbirds are most actively feeding.

The vigorous growth of morning glories makes them perfect for quickly covering unsightly structures or creating living screens. A single plant can produce hundreds of blooms over the growing season, ensuring continuous nectar availability.

For maximum hummingbird attraction, consider varieties with red or deep pink coloration. In warmer climates, be aware of potential self-seeding, which can become aggressive in ideal conditions.

Petunia

While petunias might seem commonplace, these easy-growing annuals offer exceptional value for attracting hummingbirds to containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds. The trumpet-shaped blooms in virtually every color imaginable produce abundant nectar throughout the growing season.

Modern breeding has created varieties with improved heat tolerance, disease resistance, and self-cleaning habits, making them even more valuable for low-maintenance hummingbird gardens. The continuous blooming from spring until frost ensures reliable nectar sources.

For maximum hummingbird appeal, select varieties with simpler flower forms rather than heavily doubled types where nectar access may be restricted. Grandiflora petunias with their larger blooms tend to be particularly attractive to hummingbirds, while spreading varieties can create cascading rivers of color.

Phlox

From spring-blooming creeping phlox to midsummer garden phlox, this genus offers extended season support for hummingbird populations. The clustered blooms in shades of pink, purple, white, and red create substantial nectar resources, particularly valuable during the breeding season when energy demands are highest.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) creates dramatic midsummer displays with fragrant flower clusters atop 3-4 foot stems. Their sweet scent adds sensory appeal for gardeners, while their prolific blooming attracts hummingbirds from considerable distances.

When selecting garden phlox varieties, look for improved mildew resistance in cultivars. Providing good air circulation through proper spacing and morning sun exposure also helps prevent disease issues in humid climates.

Rose of Sharon

Late summer can create nectar gaps in many gardens, which is precisely when rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) begins its spectacular flowering period. The large, tropical-looking blooms in white, pink, purple, and blue provide abundant nectar at a crucial time when many hummingbirds are building energy reserves for migration.

The shrubby growth habit of rose of Sharon creates structural elements in the garden while serving as substantial nectar sources. Newer varieties offer improved flowering, more compact growth, and reduced self-seeding—addressing common concerns with older cultivars.

Plant rose of Sharon in full sun for maximum flowering, though it tolerates partial shade with reduced bloom production. The drought tolerance of established plants makes them valuable additions to low-maintenance wildlife gardens where supplemental water may be limited.

Salvia

No hummingbird garden would be complete without salvias. This diverse genus offers varieties for virtually every growing condition, from drought-tolerant Mediterranean types to moisture-loving tropical species. The tubular blooms in shades of red, purple, blue, and pink seem specifically designed for hummingbird bills.

Annual salvias like scarlet sage (Salvia splendens) provide instant impact with continuous blooming from spring until frost. Perennial types offer years of reliable performance with minimal maintenance, while tender perennials like pineapple sage (Salvia elegans) contribute late-season blooms with fruity fragrance.

For peak hummingbird attraction, include a variety of salvias with different blooming periods to ensure continuous nectar sources. Plant in drifts rather than as isolated specimens to increase visual impact and drawing power.

Tecoma

Gardeners in warmer regions can create spectacular hummingbird displays with tecoma (Tecoma stans and hybrids). Often called yellow bells or esperanza, these shrubby plants produce clusters of trumpet-shaped golden blooms for months on end, creating focal points that draw hummingbirds from throughout the neighborhood.

The extended blooming period, often spanning from late spring until frost, provides reliable nectar sources when many other plants have finished flowering. The bright yellow blossoms contrast beautifully with the glossy green foliage, creating ornamental appeal beyond wildlife value.

In marginal zones, tecoma can be grown as a die-back perennial, treated as an annual, or kept in containers that can be protected during winter months. The fast growth rate ensures substantial flowering even when grown as a single-season plant.

Trumpet Honeysuckle

Unlike its invasive Japanese cousin, native trumpet honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) combines spectacular ornamental value with exceptional wildlife benefits. The tubular red and gold blooms appear from late spring through summer, creating irresistible nectar sources for hummingbirds.

The twining growth habit makes trumpet honeysuckle perfect for trellises, fences, or arbors, where the flowers can be displayed at eye level for human enjoyment and optimal hummingbird feeding. The semi-evergreen foliage in cooler climates adds structural interest beyond the blooming season.

For maximum wildlife value, pair trumpet honeysuckle with earlier and later-blooming vines to create continuous nectar sources throughout the growing season. The bright red berries that follow the flowers also attract songbirds, adding another dimension to the garden’s habitat value.

Trumpet Vine

When dramatic impact matters, few plants match the bold presence of trumpet vine (Campsis radicans). The large, flared orange-red blooms appear in clusters throughout summer, creating spectacular displays that draw hummingbirds from considerable distances. The tubular flowers perfectly accommodate hummingbird bills while excluding many insect competitors.

The vigorous growth of trumpet vine makes it suitable for covering large structures like pergolas, walls, or mature trees. Its clinging habit requires minimal support once established, creating maintenance-free vertical elements in the landscape.

Before planting trumpet vine, consider its aggressive growth tendency. This native plant can quickly outgrow its welcome without proper planning. Plant in contained areas or use root barriers to restrict spreading, and provide sturdy support for the heavy woody stems that develop over time.

Zinnia

Completing our list with one of the easiest annuals to grow, zinnias offer exceptional hummingbird appeal combined with cut flower quality and continuous blooming. Available in nearly every color except true blue, these summer-flowering annuals create spectacular displays with minimal effort.

The open structure of single and semi-double zinnia varieties provides easy access for hummingbirds to reach the nectar-rich centers. Their profuse flowering from early summer until frost ensures continuous food sources during peak hummingbird activity periods.

For maximum wildlife benefit, select single-form varieties rather than heavily doubled types where nectar accessibility may be reduced. Allow some flowers to remain on plants rather than cutting all blooms to ensure continuous nectar production throughout the season.