Hummingbird feeders are a popular way to invite these beautiful birds to your garden, but if you’re interested in a more eco-friendly method, consider planting native flora. One such plant is the ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens). This non-invasive shrub, rich in nectar, naturally attracts hummingbirds to your garden without the need for a feeder. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, particularly in the desert areas of Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas.
The ocotillo is characterized by its long, winding canes, which are adorned with thorns and sprout green, oval leaves after rainfall. The vibrant red and orange flower clusters atop its tall canes are particularly appealing to hummingbirds. Given its colorful foliage and ability to bloom multiple times a year—initially in spring and potentially throughout summer, depending on rainfall—this shrub is an excellent selection for attracting hummingbirds. In southern Arizona, in particular, the ocotillo’s blooming aligns with the return of hummingbirds from their winter migration, making it even more attractive to these birds.
How to Grow Ocotillo in Your Yard to Attract Hummingbirds
If you’re in a desert area within USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11, planting ocotillo can draw hummingbirds to your garden. Additionally, it attracts butterflies, creating a haven for essential pollinators. As a drought-tolerant plant, ocotillo prefers well-drained soil, similar to the rocky hillsides it naturally inhabits, which facilitates proper water drainage. After a desert rain, the shrub’s leaves appear but quickly drop as the soil dries, conserving moisture within its roots and canes during dry spells common in desert climates.
The optimal time for transplanting ocotillo is in the spring, from March to May. When relocating an ocotillo, maintain its original orientation by noting which side faced the southern sunlight and placing it accordingly to ensure it continues to receive adequate sunlight. Careful watering is crucial during its establishment phase; water about once a week in summer and biweekly in cooler months to avoid overwatering.
