What flowers do hummingbirds prefer?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Hummingbirds have a particular affinity for tubular-shaped flowers such as bee balm, salvia, and anise hyssop. These specialized flowers are perfectly sized for their long beaks and tongues. I have seen hummingbirds dozens of times each day visiting my scarlet bee balm. The red and purple flowers indicate that they are high-energy sources of nectar for these birds, which have a fast metabolism.
Bee Balm
- Nectar composition: 25% sucrose concentration matches hummingbird metabolism
- Bloom duration: Flowers last 6-8 weeks midsummer
- Native advantage: Supports ruby-throated hummingbird migration patterns
Salvia
- Tubular design: 1-2 inch deep flowers perfect for long beaks
- Drought tolerance: Thrives with minimal watering in full sun
- Color spectrum: Red varieties attract most intensely
Anise Hyssop
- Extended bloom: Flowers June through September
- Fragrance bonus: Licorice scent deters pests naturally
- Native value: Essential for rufous hummingbird populations
Sie können an dort wo erhalten 6+ Stunden direktes Licht pflanzen. In particular, plants that attract hummingbirds with moderate to high levels of sun, such as bee balm and salvia, do best when exposed to the afternoon sun. My south-facing garden beds are teeming with hummingbirds, and their activities are in full swing from dawn to dusk during peak pollinator season.
It's essential to understand the nectar composition requirements for the well-being of hummingbirds. Their metabolism needs a solution of 20-25% sucrose! Natural flower nectar develops this concentration! Sugar water feeders are not a healthy food source because they do not provide the micronutrients that all flowering plants offer. I have seen healthier hummingbirds at flowers than at feeders.
Create continuous bloom sequences to help migration. Use early-blooming salvia for initial spring arrivals. Add on midsummer bee balm for those nesting season nutrients. Stack on late anise hyssop for fall migration fuel. My garden consistently provides nectar from May to October, supporting hummingbirds throughout all stages of their life cycle.
Incorporate native species for specialized relationships. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird co-evolved with native bee balm. The Rufous Hummingbird uses Anise Hyssop during migration. These plants offer the correct nectar makeup and bloom times. I use locally sourced natives for the best results.
Read the full article: 10 Best Flowers for Pollinators
