When considering how to attract and feed hummingbirds, you might imagine a vivid red feeder brimming with sweet liquid. However, these sugar water feeders represent only a small fraction of a hummingbird’s diet; they primarily derive nourishment from flowers and small insects. Instead of solely relying on artificial nectar, think about cultivating native plants in colors that attract them. As you might suspect, they have a fondness for bright red, with orange being a close second. Thus, to attract the maximum number of hummingbirds, consider planting a mix of red and orange flowering plants. You may also want to plant nest-building vegetation to further entice them to your garden.
Depending on your climate and the unique features of your yard, some plant suggestions may thrive better than others. Among the plants most adored by hummingbirds, it’s not just the vibrant color but also a tubular, trumpet-like shape that appeals to them. This shape is ideal for feeding with their long, delicate beaks and tongues. Fun fact: It wasn’t until 2011 that biologists discovered hummingbirds don’t use their beaks like a straw, but instead employ a rapid flicking of their long, forked tongues to collect nectar. Here’s a list of stunning red and orange flowers that are sure to be a hit with hummingbirds.
Columbine
Columbines (Aquilegia spp.) come in a variety of beautiful colors, but the red ones are particularly appealing to hummingbirds. These perennials are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8 and are easily identified by their five slender tube-like stems and orange-red petals encircling a yellow inner flower. The nectar-filled tubes are irresistible to hummingbirds, with twice the sugar content compared to non-red columbine varieties. Although columbines are technically native wildflowers, they can also be cultivated in gardens and yards, thriving best in partial shade.
Red Hot Poker
For a striking ornamental plant that also serves as a proven hummingbird magnet, consider the aptly named red hot poker plant (Kniphofia uvaria). This evergreen perennial grows in zones 5 through 9 and features clusters of tightly packed red-orange flowers atop long stalks. Hummingbirds, along with butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, are drawn to these drought-resistant plants with tubular-shaped flowers. However, avoid this plant in California or the Pacific Northwest, where it is considered invasive due to aggressive spreading.
Common Lantana
In addition to attracting hummingbirds, common lantana (Lantana camara) will be a stunning addition to your garden. This perennial shrub is not only visually striking but also drought and heat tolerant. Moreover, lantana blooms are long-lasting, providing a feast for pollinators that appreciate the vibrant clusters of tubular flowers. These low-maintenance plants are suitable for garden beds or container planting. They can be grown as perennials in zones 8 to 11, but as annuals in zone 7 and possibly colder zones. Be aware that they are toxic to humans and pets.
Cuphea ‘Vermillionaire’
You don’t have to be a “vermillionaire” to enjoy this beautiful flowering perennial! Despite its exotic appearance, it’s affordable to grow. Known as the large firecracker plant, Cuphea ‘Vermillionaire’ (Cuphea hybrid ‘Cupver’) features long, tubular blooms seemingly designed for hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are easily attracted to their concealed nectar reserves. Suitable for growing zones 8 through 11, it can also be grown as an annual in zone 7 or below.
Cardinal Flower
The cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), or lobelia, is another standout for the garden. Its tall, spiky stems culminate in a cluster of bright red flowers with drooping petals. Thriving in zones 3 through 9, this plant’s name derives from the resemblance of its flowers to the robes of Roman Catholic cardinals. Featuring long, tubular flowers rich in nectar, it is highly attractive to hummingbirds. This perennial can reach up to 6 feet in height and prefers moist or wet soil.
Hollyhock
Hummingbirds and hollyhocks (Alcea rosea) are a natural pairing, akin to peanut butter and chocolate. Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to hollyhocks’ cup-shaped flowers for their vibrant color and accessible nectar. All pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and even songbirds, enjoy these stunning ornamentals. Hollyhocks are biennial plants, flowering in their second season before dying. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, suitable for zones 2 through 10.
Hardy Fuchsia
The delicate yet beautiful hardy fuchsia (Fuchsia magellanica) blooms on a deciduous shrub in zones 6 to 9. Its droopy appearance and trailing nature make it ideal for hanging baskets or window boxes. The shape of the fuchsia flower and the hummingbird’s beak have co-evolved for a perfect match, thanks to Mother Nature. In temperate climates, the hardy fuchsia blooms continuously, attracting hummingbirds for up to six months each year. This drought-hardy plant returns year after year.
Bee Balm
Bee balm (Monarda bradburiana), a member of the mint family, is highly attractive to buzzing pollinators, as its name suggests. Hummingbirds also find its nectar-rich flowers irresistible. Bee balm grows in bushy clumps with abundant flowers at the end of tall stalks, thriving in zones 4 through 9. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and prefers full sun and moist soil.
Zinnia
While zinnias come in various colors and varieties, hummingbirds show a preference for the dreamland red variety (Zinnia elegans). These beautiful round orbs range from deep orange to crimson. They grow best in full sun and moist soil. Unlike many hummingbird favorites, zinnias are not trumpet-shaped, but their tubular nectaries are easily accessible at the flower’s center. Suitable for growing in zones 2 through 11, zinnias thrive in well-draining soil under full sun.
Canna Lily
Canna lilies (Canna indica) bring color, height, and texture to any garden while also attracting hummingbirds. Their large, ruffled flowers are bright enough to be spotted from afar, and they have deep nectar reservoirs for a satisfying dining experience. Cannas grow from rhizomes, which are underground stems. They do best in full sun and can reach up to 8 feet tall in zones 7 through 11.
