Have you ever wondered how to bring more hummingbirds to your garden? These tiny, vibrant birds are not only beautiful to watch, but they also play an important part in pollination.
If you want to welcome them into your outdoor space, there’s one simple trick: plant red flowers.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best red flowers that attract hummingbirds, why red is their favorite color, and how you can design a garden that keeps them coming back.
Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you create a space full of life, color, and the delightful hum of wings.
Why Hummingbirds Love Red Flowers
Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to bright colors—especially red. But ever wonder why red flowers get their attention?
It turns out, red often stands out to hummingbirds more than to insects. This gives hummingbirds a competitive edge, as they’re more likely to feed from red blooms without having to fight off bees or butterflies.
Plus, many red flowers are tubular in shape, which perfectly matches a hummingbird’s long beak and allows them to easily sip the nectar inside.
So, when selecting plants to attract these birds, the key is simple: go for red, and choose flowers with the right shape.
Best Red Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds
Ready to transform your garden into a hummingbird haven? Here are some of the most loved red flowers that attract hummingbirds. Each is easy to grow and sure to bring some fluttering joy to your yard.
1. Red Bee Balm (Monarda)
Red Bee Balm is a magnet for hummingbirds. With its bold, spiky red blossoms, it adds both texture and color to your garden.
- Bloom Time: Mid to late summer
- Growing Conditions: Full sun to partial shade, moist soil
- Bonus: Attracts butterflies and bees too
Not only does it offer nectar, but it emits a lovely fragrance as well.
2. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
True to its name, the Cardinal Flower displays brilliant red petals that shine in late summer.
- Bloom Time: Late summer to early fall
- Growing Conditions: Moist, even wet soil; partial shade
- Perfect For: Planting near ponds or streams
Once hummingbirds find this one, they’ll be back again and again.
3. Red Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Looking for a vine that loves to climb? Try the Trumpet Honeysuckle. Its long, tubular red blooms are practically made for hummingbirds.
- Bloom Time: Spring through summer
- Growing Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil
- Best Feature: Can be trained to grow on trellises or fences
Hummingbirds will dart in for a taste and often stay nearby.
4. Scarlet Sage (Salvia coccinea)
Scarlet Sage might look delicate, but it’s one of the most reliable red flowers that attract hummingbirds all season long.
- Bloom Time: Spring to frost
- Growing Conditions: Full sun, average soil
- Extra Tip: Great for containers or flower beds
Plus, it’s easy to grow from seed and thrives in warm weather.
5. Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis)
This woodland flower offers early season nectar that helps hummingbirds refuel after migration.
- Bloom Time: Spring
- Growing Conditions: Light shade, well-drained soil
- Interesting Fact: Nods on tall stems make it a graceful wildflower
It’s one of the first flowers hummingbirds look for after a long journey.
6. Trumpet Creeper (Campsis radicans)
Want a flower that screams “come here” to hummingbirds? Trumpet Creeper’s large red-orange blooms are hard to miss.
- Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall
- Growing Conditions: Full sun, thrives in poor soil
- Warning: It can grow aggressively—plant where it has room to roam
This vine brings drama and draws in tons of birds once it’s blooming.
How to Design a Hummingbird-Friendly Garden
Choosing the right red flowers that attract hummingbirds is just step one. Let’s talk about how to truly make your garden a paradise for these tiny flyers.
1. Plant in Clusters
Instead of scattering flowers all over, group them in clusters. This gives hummingbirds a better visual target and lets them feed more efficiently. Place 3–5 of the same plant together, spacing according to the tag instructions.
2. Offer a Mix of Bloom Times
You want your garden to offer nectar all season long. Include early bloomers like Red Columbine, mid-season choices like Bee Balm, and late bloomers like Scarlet Sage.
3. Include Perching Spots
While hummingbirds are always on the move, they need rest too. Add tall shrubs, small trees, or even tiny sticks where they can perch between feedings.
4. Avoid Pesticides
Chemicals may kill off nectar and harm hummingbirds. Go organic whenever possible to create a safe space for them and other pollinators.
5. Add a Water Source
A water mister, small fountain, or birdbath with a drip feature can draw in hummingbirds. They love to fly through fine sprays as a way to cool down and preen.
Don’t Forget About Native Plants
Native plants usually do a better job attracting local hummingbirds. They’re adapted to your region’s weather, pests, and birds. If you’re unsure where to start, visit a nearby nursery or extension office and ask about native red flowers.
Examples of Native Options
- Eastern U.S.: Cardinal Flower, Coral Honeysuckle
- Western U.S.: Penstemon, Indian Paintbrush
- Southeastern U.S.: Firebush, Scarlet Sage
Planting native also encourages biodiversity, which benefits your whole garden.
Supplement with Feeders (But Don’t Rely on Them Alone)
Yes, feeders can attract hummingbirds. But red flowers offer natural and varied nutrition. If you do use feeders, remember to:
- Use a mix of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water
- Skip the red dye—it’s not necessary and may be harmful
- Clean feeders every few days to prevent mold
Flowers offer not just food, but shelter and beauty too.
Start Small and Watch Your Garden Come to Life
Even if you don’t have a huge yard, adding a few red flowers that attract hummingbirds can make a big difference. Whether it’s a window box, raised bed, or backyard garden, hummingbirds will find their way to the vibrant blooms.
Imagine stepping outside in the morning, coffee in hand, just in time to catch the flash of a hummingbird’s wings as it dips into a red flower. It’s simple yet magical.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Red in a Hummingbird Garden
Attracting hummingbirds is easier than you might think. By planting red flowers that attract hummingbirds, you’re not only creating a vibrant, lively garden—you’re helping local wildlife thrive.
To recap, look for flowers like:
- Bee Balm
- Cardinal Flower
- Trumpet Honeysuckle
- Scarlet Sage
- Red Columbine
- Trumpet Creeper
Combine these with smart garden design, and you’ll turn your space into a hummingbird hotspot.
Thanks for reading—and may your garden be full of color and life this season!
