Hummingbirds are enchanting creatures that captivate us with their iridescent plumage and swift movements.
If you’re an avid bird watcher or simply wish to invite these delightful visitors to your garden, planting shrubs that attract them is a wonderful idea.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven of the best shrubs that will not only beautify your outdoor space but also serve as irresistible magnets for hummingbirds.
1. Salvia
Brilliant Sage (Salvia splendens)
Salvia, commonly known as sage, is a vibrant and aromatic plant that comes in various colors, including red, purple, and blue.
The tubular shape of its flowers makes them perfect for hummingbirds to sip nectar from.
Planting salvia in your garden will not only add a splash of color but also attract these tiny birds in abundance.
2. Lonicera
Honeysuckle (Lonicera)
Honeysuckle is a classic favorite among gardeners for its sweet fragrance and delicate, trumpet-shaped flowers.
These flowers, which bloom in clusters, are irresistible to hummingbirds seeking nourishment.
Planting honeysuckle vines along fences or trellises will create a picturesque scene while inviting hummingbirds to your garden.
3. Weigela
Weigela florida
Weigela is a versatile shrub known for its bell-shaped flowers that bloom profusely in spring and early summer.
Hummingbirds are particularly fond of the tubular flowers of certain weigela varieties.
With its charming blooms and ease of care, weigela is a must-have shrub for any hummingbird enthusiast.
4. Fuchsia
Lady’s Eardrops (Fuchsia)
Fuchsia is renowned for its unique, pendulous flowers that come in a dazzling array of colors, including shades of pink, purple, and red.
These flowers, with their long, slender petals, are tailor-made for hummingbirds to feed from.
Hanging baskets or containers filled with fuchsia will not only enhance your garden but also provide a feast for visiting hummingbirds.
5. Buddleja
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
As the name suggests, the butterfly bush is a magnet for butterflies, but it also holds great appeal for hummingbirds.
Its cone-shaped clusters of flowers, which emit a sweet fragrance, are rich in nectar and attract hummingbirds from far and wide.
Planting a butterfly bush in your garden will ensure a constant stream of these delightful visitors throughout the blooming season.
6. Clethra
Summersweet (Clethra alnifolia)
Summersweet, as its name implies, is cherished for its sweetly fragrant flowers that bloom in late summer.
The elongated clusters of tiny, white blossoms are a favorite of hummingbirds seeking late-season sustenance.
Adding a clethra shrub to your garden will provide a welcome treat for hummingbirds during the warmer months.
7. Monarda
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm, also known as Oswego tea, is a native North American plant prized for its showy, aromatic flowers.
Hummingbirds are drawn to the tubular shape of its blossoms, which come in shades of red, pink, and purple.
Planting bee balm in your garden not only attracts hummingbirds but also contributes to the overall health of your local ecosystem.
In conclusion, incorporating these seven shrubs into your garden landscape will not only add beauty and fragrance but also attract a myriad of hummingbirds.
By providing these tiny avian visitors with a diverse selection of nectar-rich flowers, you’ll create a welcoming habitat that they’ll return to year after year.
8. Columbine
A Delicate Dance of Color
Columbine flowers are like dancers in the garden, swaying gracefully in the breeze.
These delicate blooms, which come in shades of red, pink, purple, yellow, and white, are a favorite food source for hummingbirds.
Columbine plants are easy to grow and self-seeding, making them a low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Planting columbine in your garden will not only attract hummingbirds but also add a touch of whimsy and charm to your outdoor space.
9. Cardinal Flower
A Regal Presence
Cardinal flower is like a beacon of color in the garden, drawing hummingbirds with its fiery hue.
These striking blooms, which come in shades of red, are a favorite food source for hummingbirds seeking nectar.
Cardinal flower plants are easy to grow and thrive in moist, shady conditions, making them a popular choice for gardeners seeking to attract pollinators.
Planting cardinal flower in your garden will not only attract hummingbirds but also add a bold splash of color to your landscape.
10. Zinnia
A Burst of Sunshine
Zinnia flowers are like rays of sunshine in the garden, brightening up even the dullest day.
These cheerful blooms, which come in shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, are a favorite of hummingbirds seeking nectar.
Zinnia plants are easy to grow and drought-tolerant, making them a popular choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance beauty.
Planting zinnia in your garden will not only attract hummingbirds but also provide a long-lasting display of color throughout the summer months.
FAQs:
1. Are these shrubs suitable for all climates?
Yes, while some shrubs may thrive better in certain climates, many of the listed shrubs are adaptable to various growing conditions.
2. How can I maintain these shrubs to ensure optimal hummingbird attraction?
Regular pruning, adequate watering, and fertilization according to the specific needs of each shrub will help maintain healthy growth and abundant blooms.
3. Will planting these shrubs attract other wildlife to my garden?
Yes, in addition to hummingbirds, you may also attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.
4. Can I plant these shrubs in containers?
Yes, many of these shrubs, such as fuchsia and salvia, can thrive in containers as long as they receive sufficient sunlight and moisture.
5. How soon can I expect hummingbirds to visit after planting these shrubs?
Hummingbirds are attracted to blooming flowers, so you can expect them to visit your garden shortly after the shrubs start flowering, typically within a few weeks to a month after planting.