Hummingbirds are among the most fascinating and delightful creatures to grace any garden.
Their iridescent colors and agile flight patterns captivate the attention of gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.
If you’re looking to attract these charming birds to your garden year after year, planting perennial flowers is a fantastic strategy.
Perennials not only provide reliable blooms but also establish themselves over time, creating stable food sources for hummingbirds.
Here’s a guide to the top 10 perennial flowers that will help you create a haven for hummingbirds in your garden.
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
Salvias are renowned for their long spikes of vibrant flowers that hummingbirds find irresistible.
Varieties like Salvia guaranitica and Salvia elegans (Pineapple Sage) bloom profusely from late spring through fall, providing a continuous nectar source.
These plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for sunny garden spots.
Liatris (Liatris spp.)
Also known as Blazing Star or Gayfeather, Liatris produces tall spikes adorned with fluffy purple or white flowers.
These striking perennials bloom in mid to late summer and thrive in full sun.
Their unique flower structure makes them a favorite among hummingbirds seeking abundant nectar.
Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
Columbines are delicate, bell-shaped flowers that come in a variety of colors.
They bloom in spring to early summer and are well-loved by hummingbirds for their nectar.
Columbines thrive in partial shade and well-drained soil, making them perfect for woodland gardens or mixed borders.
Monarda (Monarda spp.)
Also called Bee Balm, Monarda is a North American native perennial with showy, spiky flowers that hummingbirds adore.
The tubular flowers bloom in mid to late summer and come in shades of red, pink, purple, and white.
Monarda prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
Penstemons, or Beardtongues, are easy-to-grow perennials known for their tubular flowers that hummingbirds find irresistible.
They bloom from late spring to midsummer and are available in a wide range of colors including red, pink, purple, and blue.
Penstemons thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
Agastache (Agastache spp.)
Hummingbird Mint or Hyssop (Agastache) is a drought-tolerant perennial with spikes of tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies alike.
They bloom from midsummer to fall and prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
Agastaches are available in various colors including shades of orange, pink, and purple.
Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.)
Honeysuckles are vigorous climbers or shrubs with fragrant, tubular flowers that hummingbirds visit frequently for nectar.
They bloom from late spring through summer and are available in both native and non-native varieties.
Honeysuckles prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, fertile soil.
Bee Balm (Gaura lindheimeri)
Gaura, also known as Butterfly Bush or Wand Flower, produces delicate, star-shaped flowers on wiry stems.
They bloom from late spring through fall and are loved by hummingbirds for their continuous nectar supply.
Gaura thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Hosta (Hosta spp.)
Hostas are shade-loving perennials known for their attractive foliage and occasional spikes of bell-shaped flowers.
While not primarily nectar plants, certain hosta varieties do produce flowers that hummingbirds may visit for a quick sip of nectar.
Hostas thrive in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Native to North America, Cardinal Flower is a striking perennial with tall spikes of vibrant red flowers that hummingbirds adore.
They bloom from midsummer to early fall and prefer partial shade and moist, rich soil. Cardinal flowers are excellent for woodland gardens or damp areas.
Creating a Hummingbird Haven
By incorporating these top 10 perennial flowers into your garden, you can create a haven for hummingbirds throughout the seasons.
Remember to provide additional attractions such as shallow water sources and perches for these energetic birds to rest and observe their surroundings.
With careful planning and maintenance, your garden can become a vibrant sanctuary that not only attracts
hummingbirds but also enhances your overall outdoor experience with nature’s marvels.
Happy gardening and happy hummingbird watching!