Annual Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds: Bright Blooms for Your Backyard
If you’ve ever watched a hummingbird swing by your yard, you know just how magical these tiny creatures can be.
With their bright feathers and rapid wingbeats, they bring any garden to life. But did you know that planting the right flowers can actually invite more hummingbirds to visit? That’s where annual flowers that attract hummingbirds come into play.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most beautiful and hummingbird-friendly annual flowers you can grow. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned green thumb, these tips will help you create a vibrant, fluttering paradise right outside your door.
Why Do Hummingbirds Love Certain Flowers?
First things first—why are hummingbirds attracted to specific flowers?
It mainly comes down to color, shape, and nectar. Hummingbirds have an incredible sense of vision, and they’re especially drawn to bright colors, like red, orange, and pink. They’re also big fans of tubular-shaped flowers because their long beaks and tongues make it easy to drink nectar from them.
Annual flowers that attract hummingbirds often have all three of these qualities: vibrant colors, tube-shaped blooms, and nectar-rich centers.
Benefits of Growing Annual Flowers
So, why focus on annuals when perennials and shrubs also attract hummingbirds?
Annual flowers only last a single growing season, but they tend to bloom quickly and continuously. That means a whole summer of color and activity, keeping hummingbirds coming back for more.
Here are a few benefits of choosing annual flowers:
- Continuous bloom: Most annuals flower from spring through fall.
- Fast growth: They mature quickly and start blooming earlier in the season.
- Easy to change up: Want a fresh look next year? Just plant different varieties.
Now let’s dig into some of the best annual flowers that attract hummingbirds.
Top 10 Annual Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds
There are dozens of options out there, but these ten annual blooms consistently bring in hummingbirds and add beauty to any yard.
1. Salvia (Annual Variety)
Salvia, especially the red or purple varieties, is like a neon sign for hummingbirds. The tall spikes of blooms make it easy for them to access nectar, and the plant keeps blooming all season long.
2. Petunias
Petunias are not only stunning in flower beds and hanging baskets, but they’re also a hummingbird favorite. Choose bright reds and purples to get the best results.
3. Zinnias
Zinnias come in a rainbow of colors, and hummingbirds can’t resist them. They love the wide petals and easy-access center. Plus, zinnias are low-maintenance—just plant and watch them grow.
4. Nasturtiums
With their peppery scent and bright orange or red blooms, nasturtiums make great companions in both flower and vegetable gardens. They climb, trail, and attract tons of hummingbirds.
5. Verbena
Verbena is ideal for containers, borders, or ground cover. Its clusters of tiny flowers are full of nectar, and its long blooming period ensures a steady stream of hummingbird visitors.
6. Snapdragon
Snapdragons are tall and colorful, with tube-like flowers that hummingbirds love to sip from. They come in a range of hues, making them great for mixing and matching in the garden.
7. Cuphea (Cigar Plant)
Cuphea may not be a household name, but once hummingbirds find it, they won’t leave it alone. With small, tubular red or orange flowers, it’s a true magnet for winged visitors.
8. Lantana (Annual in Cooler Zones)
Technically a perennial in warmer regions, lantana is grown as an annual in cooler areas. Its vibrant clusters of pink, orange, and yellow flowers are a hummingbird buffet.
9. Fuchsia (Annual in Most Zones)
Fuchsia thrives in hanging baskets and shady areas. Its drooping, bell-shaped flowers full of nectar are irresistible to hummingbirds.
10. Cleome (Spider Flower)
If you want something tall and eye-catching, cleome is for you. These spiky blooms reach for the sky and draw pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
How to Make Your Garden a Hummingbird Haven
It’s not just about picking the right flowers. Creating a hummingbird-friendly garden involves a few extra touches that will make your space even more inviting.
Plant in Groups
Clustering the same type of flower together helps hummingbirds spot them more easily. Think of it like a buffet line—they’d rather not hop from one end of the yard to the other for just one snack.
Choose Bright Colors
As mentioned earlier, reds, oranges, pinks, and purples are the top color picks for catching a hummingbird’s eye.
Use Feeders for Backup
While flowers should be the main attraction, a sugar-water feeder can supplement their food source when blooms are scarce. Just be sure to clean your feeder regularly.
Add Perches and Water
Hummingbirds like a break too. If you can, set up a few small perches like thin branches or wires near your flowers. A birdbath with a misting feature or fountain can help them stay hydrated and clean.
Avoid Pesticides
Many pest control products are harmful to hummingbirds and the insects they feed on. Stick to organic methods when you can.
When and Where to Plant Annual Flowers
Wondering when to get started? Most annual flowers that attract hummingbirds should be planted after the last frost in your region. Check your local planting zone to be sure.
As for where to plant them:
- Sunny areas: Most hummingbird-friendly annuals thrive in full sun, which also helps flowers produce more nectar.
- Containers: Great for patios, balconies, or small yards. Many of the flowers above grow well in pots.
- Garden beds: Mix and match colors and heights for a layered, natural look.
Keeping Hummingbirds Coming Back All Season
Here are a few tips to ensure your garden stays hummingbird-ready from spring through fall:
- Deadhead flowers: Remove spent blooms to encourage new growth and more nectar.
- Fertilize lightly: Don’t overdo it—too much fertilizer may result in a lot of leaves but fewer flowers.
- Monitor pests: Watch for insects like aphids that can damage flowers, but avoid harsh chemicals.
Final Thoughts: Let the Hummingbirds Choose You
Creating a garden full of annual flowers that attract hummingbirds is one of the easiest ways to add color, life, and movement to your outdoor space. By picking the right plants and taking a few simple steps, you’ll not only support these amazing creatures—but also get to enjoy their beauty all season long.
So, next time you’re at the garden center, look for these hummingbird-friendly annuals. With a little care and planning, you’ll be welcoming a rainbow of wings in no time.
Ready to transform your yard into a hummingbird paradise? The flowers are waiting—and so are the birds.
