Hummingbirds are drawn to vibrant, nectar-rich blooms, making flower-filled gardens a paradise for these tiny, energetic birds. Choosing the right flowers that attract hummingbirds not only enhances your garden’s beauty but also provides a vital food source for these pollinators. From towering sunflowers to delicate lobelias, there are countless options to create a hummingbird-friendly haven.
In this guide, we’ll explore 45 stunning flowers that attract hummingbirds, complete with pictures to inspire your garden design. Whether you prefer annuals, perennials, vines, or shrubs, these plants will ensure a colorful and lively outdoor space buzzing with activity.
Perennial flowers that attract hummingbirds
Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)
With its pendulous, vividly hued flowers, Fuchsia beckons hummingbirds, inviting them to indulge in its nectar-filled blooms. Suitable for USDA zones 6-10, Fuchsia thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it ideal for hanging baskets, containers, and shaded garden beds.
Blooming from spring through frost, Fuchsia provides a long-lasting display of elegant, drooping flowers. Though it requires regular watering and protection from extreme heat, its vibrant blossoms reward gardeners with an enchanting floral show and a steady stream of hummingbird visitors.
Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
The unique shape of Columbine’s blossoms, resembling little bird feeders, makes it a go-to for hummingbirds seeking nectar. Thriving in USDA zones 3-9, this adaptable perennial flourishes in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Blooming in spring and early summer, Columbine produces delicate, nodding flowers in a variety of colors, from red and yellow to blue and purple. With minimal care requirements, it self-seeds readily, ensuring a naturalized presence in woodland gardens, borders, and rock gardens.
Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria)
Standing tall with spikes of fiery flowers, Red Hot Poker attracts hummingbirds with its striking appearance and sweet nectar. Best suited for USDA zones 5-9, this bold perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a standout addition to garden beds and xeriscapes.
Blooming from late spring through summer, Red Hot Poker requires little maintenance beyond occasional deadheading and watering in dry conditions. Its torch-like flowers bring height, drama, and a steady stream of hummingbirds to the landscape.
Scarlet Sage (Salvia coccinea)
Hummingbirds can’t resist the allure of Scarlet Sage’s vibrant red flowers, providing a feast of nectar for their delight. Hardy in USDA zones 8-10 (or grown as an annual elsewhere), this easy-to-grow plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Blooming from late spring until frost, Scarlet Sage is a long-lasting nectar source that requires minimal care beyond occasional pruning. Its bright blooms make it a must-have for pollinator gardens, borders, and containers.
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spp.)
The charming, heart-shaped blooms of Bleeding Heart draw hummingbirds with their dainty beauty and nectar rewards. Flourishing in USDA zones 3-9, this shade-loving perennial thrives in moist, well-drained soil and adds a touch of elegance to woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Blooming in spring and early summer, Bleeding Heart’s delicate pink or white flowers dangle gracefully from arching stems. While the foliage may fade in summer heat, pairing it with later-blooming plants ensures season-long visual interest in the garden.
Lupine (Lupinus spp.)
Tall spires of colorful Lupine flowers offer an enticing dining experience for hummingbirds searching for a nectar-rich feast. Hardy in USDA zones 4-8, Lupine thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Blooming from late spring to early summer, Lupine’s striking flower spikes come in shades of blue, purple, pink, and yellow. With its nitrogen-fixing properties, this plant also improves soil health, making it a valuable addition to cottage gardens, wildflower meadows, and naturalized landscapes.
Agastache (Agastache spp.)
The long, tubular flowers of Agastache, in hues of purple, pink, or orange, act like hummingbird magnets in the garden. Thriving in USDA zones 5-10, this drought-tolerant perennial prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for xeriscapes, pollinator gardens, and borders.
Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, Agastache requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional deadheading. Its fragrant foliage and abundant nectar make it a favorite among not only hummingbirds but also bees and butterflies, ensuring a lively and colorful garden.
Hollyhock (Alcea rosea)
The towering presence of Hollyhock, adorned with its large blooms, provides a welcoming buffet for hummingbirds. Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, this biennial or short-lived perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding vertical interest to cottage gardens and borders.
Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, Hollyhock’s tall flower spikes showcase blossoms in shades of red, pink, yellow, and white. Although it may require staking for support, its stunning floral display and pollinator-friendly nature make it a standout in any landscape.
Foxglove (Digitalis spp.)
Hummingbirds are lured by the tall spikes of Foxglove’s tubular flowers, which offer a generous supply of nectar. Best suited for USDA zones 4-9, this shade-tolerant biennial or perennial flourishes in moist, well-drained soil, making it perfect for woodland gardens and shaded borders.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, Foxglove produces striking bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow. While all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, its breathtaking beauty and ability to attract pollinators make it a treasured addition to any garden.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
The abundance of tubular blossoms in various colors makes Penstemon a popular choice for attracting hummingbirds. Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, this tough and drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for rock gardens, meadows, and borders.
Blooming from late spring to summer, Penstemon requires little maintenance beyond occasional pruning. Its spiky flower clusters, ranging from red and pink to purple and blue, create a stunning visual display while providing a vital nectar source for hummingbirds.
Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.)
Hummingbirds are drawn to the delicate, bell-shaped flowers of Coral Bells, which provide a delightful nectar reward. Thriving in USDA zones 4-9, this shade-loving perennial prefers well-drained soil and is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, borders, and containers.
Blooming from late spring through summer, Coral Bells produce airy flower stalks in shades of red, pink, and white above mounds of colorful foliage. With minimal care requirements and striking year-round leaves, this versatile plant adds beauty and pollinator appeal to any garden.
Beardtongue (Penstemon spp.)
The tubular blooms of Beardtongue make it a sought-after source of nectar for hummingbirds visiting the garden. Hardy in USDA zones 3-9, this resilient perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great choice for borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows.
Blooming from late spring to summer, Beardtongue produces striking spikes of flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, and white. Requiring little maintenance beyond occasional pruning, this drought-tolerant plant offers long-lasting color and a reliable nectar source for pollinators.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja spp.)
As the name suggests, this shrub is a favorite of butterflies and hummingbirds alike, thanks to its abundant nectar. Thriving in USDA zones 5-9, Butterfly Bush prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an ideal addition to pollinator gardens and borders.
Blooming from summer to early fall, this fast-growing shrub produces clusters of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow. With proper pruning to encourage new growth, Butterfly Bush provides a continuous nectar source for visiting pollinators.
Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium spp.)
The large, feathery flowers of Joe Pye Weed act as a beacon for hummingbirds, beckoning them with their ample nectar. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, this tall perennial flourishes in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it a great choice for rain gardens and meadow plantings.
Blooming from mid to late summer, Joe Pye Weed’s clusters of pink or purple flowers attract a wide range of pollinators. Though it requires consistent moisture, its impressive height and pollinator appeal make it a striking and beneficial garden addition.
Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica)
Despite its invasive tendencies, hummingbirds can’t resist the allure of Japanese Honeysuckle’s sweet-scented flowers. Hardy in USDA zones 4-10, this fast-growing vine thrives in full sun to partial shade and can quickly cover fences, trellises, and arbors.
Blooming from late spring through summer, Japanese Honeysuckle produces fragrant, tubular flowers that transition from white to yellow. While it provides an excellent nectar source, gardeners should monitor its growth carefully to prevent unwanted spreading.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee Balm (Monarda) is a striking perennial known for its vibrant red, pink, or purple blooms that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Thriving in USDA growing zones 4-9, it flourishes in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it a beautiful and beneficial addition to pollinator gardens.
This hardy plant blooms from mid to late summer, adding a splash of color to borders, meadows, and cottage gardens. Bee Balm is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional watering and deadheading. Beyond its ornamental appeal, it has a rich history of medicinal and culinary uses, with its fragrant leaves often brewed into teas. With its showy flowers and aromatic foliage, Bee Balm is a must-have for any garden that welcomes wildlife.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
The striking scarlet flowers of the Cardinal Flower act as a beacon, drawing hummingbirds from afar. Best suited for USDA growing zones 3-9, this moisture-loving perennial thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers rich, well-drained soil. Its tall, elegant spikes of red blooms create a dramatic focal point in wetlands, rain gardens, and borders.
Blooming from mid to late summer, the Cardinal Flower requires minimal maintenance aside from consistent moisture. Its nectar-rich blossoms provide an essential food source for hummingbirds, making it a standout addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
The fiery orange, trumpet-shaped flowers of Trumpet Vine irresistibly tempt hummingbirds for a taste. Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, this vigorous climbing vine flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for trellises, fences, and arbors.
A fast grower, Trumpet Vine blooms from summer into early fall, producing an abundance of nectar-filled flowers. While it requires occasional pruning to control its spread, this low-maintenance plant rewards gardeners with a stunning floral display and a steady stream of visiting hummingbirds.
Coral Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Hummingbirds adore the coral-red tubular flowers of Coral Honeysuckle, providing a delectable nectar source. This semi-evergreen vine thrives in USDA zones 4-9, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Blooming from spring through summer, Coral Honeysuckle is a long-lasting nectar provider for pollinators. Unlike invasive honeysuckle species, this native vine is well-behaved, making it an excellent choice for fences, pergolas, and trellises. With its twining growth habit and bright blooms, it brings beauty and biodiversity to any garden.
Salvia (Salvia spp.)
A hummingbird favorite, Salvia’s tubular blossoms in various colors offer a steady supply of nectar. Hardy in USDA zones 4-10, this drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, and pollinator gardens.
Salvia blooms from late spring through fall, ensuring a continuous food source for hummingbirds. With minimal care requirements beyond occasional deadheading, this hardy plant brings long-lasting color and movement to any garden, as hummingbirds flit from flower to flower.
Annual flowers that attract hummingbirds
Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.)
Early-rising hummingbirds find Morning Glory’s colorful, trumpet-shaped flowers a perfect morning energy boost. Hardy in USDA zones 2-11, this fast-growing vine thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for trellises, fences, and arbors.
Blooming from summer to fall, Morning Glory produces stunning flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white. Requiring minimal care beyond regular watering, this vigorous climber creates a breathtaking display while serving as an irresistible nectar source for hummingbirds.
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia spp.)
Hummingbirds are drawn to the golden-yellow petals with dark centers of Black-Eyed Susans during the summer. Thriving in USDA zones 3-9, these hardy perennials or annuals prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them a great addition to borders, meadows, and pollinator gardens.
Blooming from mid-summer to fall, Black-Eyed Susans provide long-lasting color and a steady nectar source for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. With minimal maintenance required, they offer a cheerful, low-maintenance burst of warmth to any landscape.
Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)
These daisy-like flowers provide abundant nectar, making them a favorite stop for hummingbirds. Grown as annuals in most climates, Cosmos thrive in USDA zones 2-11, flourishing in full sun and well-drained soil.
Blooming from summer until frost, Cosmos come in shades of pink, white, red, and orange, with delicate, fern-like foliage. Their easy-to-grow nature, drought tolerance, and ability to self-seed make them a fantastic choice for wildflower gardens and borders, ensuring a continuous nectar supply.
Lantana (Lantana camara)
The clusters of colorful Lantana flowers create an irresistible nectar oasis for hummingbirds. Hardy in USDA zones 8-11 (or grown as an annual in cooler climates), this heat-loving plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets.
Blooming from late spring through fall, Lantana’s vibrant flower clusters range from red and orange to pink, yellow, and purple. With its drought tolerance and minimal care requirements, this low-maintenance beauty provides a reliable nectar source throughout the growing season.
Sunflower (Helianthus spp.)
The large and striking blooms of Sunflowers not only attract bees but also hummingbirds seeking nectar. Best suited for USDA zones 2-11, these sun-loving annuals thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for bright and open landscapes.
Blooming from mid-summer to early fall, Sunflowers offer towering stalks topped with bold yellow, red, or orange blooms. Some varieties also produce edible seeds, adding both beauty and functionality to vegetable gardens, borders, and pollinator habitats.
Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)
Despite its small size, Sweet Alyssum offers a sweet reward, enticing hummingbirds to stop by. Thriving in USDA zones 5-9 (or grown as an annual in cooler climates), this low-growing plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Blooming from spring through fall, Sweet Alyssum produces clusters of tiny white, pink, or purple flowers with a delightful honey-like fragrance. With its ability to attract pollinators while acting as a charming ground cover, it provides both aesthetic and ecological benefits to any garden.
Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia)
Hummingbirds are drawn to the vibrant orange blooms of the Mexican Sunflower, filled with nectar. Thriving in USDA zones 3-10 as an annual, this heat-loving plant flourishes in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a stunning addition to butterfly and pollinator gardens.
Blooming from mid-summer to fall, Mexican Sunflower produces large, daisy-like flowers that stand atop tall, sturdy stems. With its drought tolerance and ability to attract a variety of pollinators, it adds both height and bold color to any landscape.
Nicotiana (Nicotiana spp.)
The tubular flowers of Nicotiana are a hummingbird magnet, especially during the evening hours. Hardy in USDA zones 10-11 (or grown as an annual in cooler climates), this fragrant plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for cottage gardens and mixed borders.
Blooming from summer until frost, Nicotiana’s star-shaped flowers come in shades of white, pink, red, and green. With its sweet evening fragrance and easy-growing nature, this plant enhances the nighttime garden while providing a valuable nectar source.
Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)
Hummingbirds are easily enticed by the tubular shape of Snapdragon flowers, offering easy access to nectar. Thriving in USDA zones 7-10 as a short-lived perennial (or as an annual in cooler climates), Snapdragons prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for borders, containers, and cutting gardens.
Blooming from spring to early summer, Snapdragons come in a variety of vibrant colors, including red, pink, yellow, and orange. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering, ensuring a steady nectar supply for hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
These cheerful blooms provide a nectar-rich feast for hummingbirds and other pollinators. Grown as an annual in most climates, Calendula thrives in USDA zones 2-11, preferring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Blooming from early spring through fall, Calendula’s bright orange and yellow flowers are not only visually appealing but also have medicinal and culinary uses. With its low-maintenance requirements and continuous blooms, this versatile plant is a garden favorite.
Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)
With its small, delicate flowers, Lobelia acts as a beacon for hummingbirds seeking a quick nectar fix. Best suited for USDA zones 10-11 (or grown as an annual in cooler climates), this trailing plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil, making it perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes, and borders.
Blooming from spring until frost, Lobelia’s cascading blue, purple, or white flowers create a striking display. With its compact growth habit and ability to attract pollinators, it adds a delicate yet vibrant touch to any garden setting.
Celosia (Celosia spp.)
The eye-catching plumes and bright colors of Celosia are irresistible to hummingbirds. Thriving in USDA zones 2-11 as an annual, this heat-loving plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it a fantastic addition to flower beds, borders, and container gardens.
Blooming from summer until frost, Celosia produces feathery or crested flowers in vivid shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. With its drought tolerance and long-lasting blooms, this striking plant adds both texture and color to any landscape while providing nectar for pollinators.
Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus)
The sweet fragrance and pastel colors of Sweet Pea flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. Best grown as an annual in most climates, Sweet Pea thrives in USDA zones 2-9, preferring full sun and rich, well-drained soil.
Blooming from late spring to early summer, Sweet Pea’s delicate blossoms appear in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white. Requiring support from trellises or fences, this vining plant brings both beauty and scent to the garden while serving as a nectar source.
Ageratum (Ageratum houstonianum)
Hummingbirds are drawn to the fluffy, blue or pink flower clusters of Ageratum. Grown as an annual in most regions, this compact plant thrives in USDA zones 2-11, preferring full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Blooming from late spring until fall, Ageratum’s soft, cushion-like flowers create a cloud of color in garden beds, borders, and containers. With its ability to attract pollinators and its long-lasting blooms, it is a charming addition to any outdoor space.
Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
The vibrant and cheerful Marigold blooms provide a nectar-rich buffet, attracting hummingbirds to the garden. Thriving in USDA zones 2-11 as an annual, Marigolds flourish in full sun and well-drained soil, making them an easy-to-grow favorite for flower beds and vegetable gardens.
Blooming from spring until frost, Marigolds produce bright yellow, orange, and red flowers that not only attract hummingbirds but also help repel garden pests. With their low maintenance needs and season-long blooms, they add warmth and function to any garden setting.
Petunia (Petunia spp.)
These popular annuals produce abundant trumpet-shaped blooms that hummingbirds find irresistible. Grown in USDA zones 10-11 as perennials (or as annuals in cooler climates), Petunias thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds.
Blooming from spring until frost, Petunias require regular deadheading to encourage continuous flowering. Available in a wide range of colors, these low-maintenance flowers provide a reliable nectar source for hummingbirds while adding vibrant beauty to any outdoor space.
Zinnia (Zinnia spp.)
Hummingbirds are drawn to the bright and colorful Zinnia flowers, which offer a sweet nectar treat. Thriving in USDA zones 3-10, these sun-loving annuals flourish in well-drained soil and warm temperatures, making them an excellent choice for garden beds, borders, and containers.
Blooming from summer until frost, Zinnias come in a dazzling array of colors, including red, pink, orange, and yellow. With minimal care requirements and a long-lasting bloom period, they provide a vibrant, nectar-rich food source for hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Verbena (Verbena spp.)
The tiny, fragrant flowers of Verbena provide a delightful nectar source, attracting hummingbirds. Hardy in USDA zones 7-11 (or grown as an annual in cooler climates), this heat-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a great addition to rock gardens, hanging baskets, and borders.
Blooming from late spring through fall, Verbena forms clusters of colorful flowers in shades of purple, pink, red, and white. Its trailing or mounding habit adds beauty to garden spaces while ensuring a steady nectar supply for visiting pollinators.
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum spp.)
The edible and vibrant flowers of Nasturtium offer a double delight, enticing both hummingbirds and garden enthusiasts. Grown as an annual in most climates, this easy-to-grow plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for garden beds, hanging baskets, and vegetable gardens.
Blooming from late spring until frost, Nasturtium produces bright, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. With its low-maintenance nature and peppery edible blooms, it adds both visual appeal and culinary versatility to any garden.
Four O’Clock (Mirabilis jalapa)
The blooms of Four O’Clock open in the late afternoon, attracting hummingbirds just in time for a sip. Hardy in USDA zones 7-11 (or grown as an annual elsewhere), this fragrant, bushy perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a charming addition to cottage gardens and borders.
Blooming from summer to fall, Four O’Clock produces trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, yellow, red, and white. With its unique blooming schedule and sweet nectar, it provides a reliable food source for evening pollinators, including hummingbirds.
