Top Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds and Butterflies to Your Garden

Flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies don’t just beautify your outdoor space; they create a lively ecosystem that enchants everyone who visits. 

With their bright blooms, these plants offer not only a feast for the eyes but also an irresistible banquet of nectar for some of nature’s most delicate creatures. 

Hummingbirds are drawn to tubular-shaped flowers designed to accommodate their long bills, while butterflies flutter nearby, seeking out blossoms rich in nectar.

Creating a garden that invites these winged wonders is easier than you might think! By choosing the right selection of flowering plants, you can transform your backyard into a bustling sanctuary where hummingbirds dart from bloom to bloom, and butterflies dance gracefully in the sunlight. 

Bee Balm

Bee balm (Monarda didyma) is a delightful addition to any garden, especially if you’re aiming to create a haven for hummingbirds and butterflies. 

With its unique full spikes and spherical shape, this perennial not only captivates the eye but also serves as an irresistible food source for these dazzling pollinators. 

bee balm flower

The vibrant red blooms are often the star of the show, though purple and orange cultivars can add diversity and charm to your landscape. 

Plant it in USDA Growing Zones 4 to 9, where its colorful display will flourish.

Flowers that attract hummingbirds, bee balm stands out due to its long blooming period and nectar-rich blossoms. 

This plant thrives best in full sun but adapts well to partial shade, making it versatile for various garden layouts. 

It prefers moist yet well-drained soil, allowing gardeners who take special care of their plants to witness a lively ecosystem unfold right before their eyes. 

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Cardinal Flower

Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a stunning addition to any garden, especially for those looking to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. 

cardinal flower

With its impressive height of up to 4 feet, the tall stalks adorned with vibrant scarlet red flowers create a striking visual that draws attention not only from human admirers but also from these lovely creatures. 

While scarlet red is the most common variety, white and rose cultivars offer charming alternatives that can blend well into mixed perennial garden beds. 

Flower NameAttractsGrowing Tips
Trumpet VineHummingbirds, ButterfliesFull sun, well-drained soil
Bee BalmHummingbirds, ButterfliesMoist soil, partial to full sun
SalviaHummingbirds, ButterfliesDry soil, thrives in sunny locations
Butterfly BushButterfliesWell-drained soil, full sun
Cardinal FlowerHummingbirdsMoist soil, partial shade to full sun

Cardinal Flower thrives in USDA zones 3 to 9 and prefers full sun to partial shade, making it versatile enough for various growing conditions. 

The soil needs are simple too; well-draining yet moist soil keeps these beauties flourishing. 

Whether you choose to plant them in clusters or as solitary statement pieces towards the back of your flower beds, they are certain to lure hummingbirds in search of nectar while providing essential habitats for butterflies.

Zinnia

When transforming your garden into a vibrant haven for hummingbirds and butterflies, the Zinnia stands out as an exceptional choice. 

With blooms that pop in brilliant hues, ranging from fiery reds to sunny yellows, these flowers not only serve as eye-catching decor but also attract these delightful avian visitors. 

zinnia flower

Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to the rich nectar found in Zinnia blossoms, making them a perfect addition if your goal is to encourage more of these graceful creatures into your outdoor space.

Growing Zinnias is accessible for gardeners of all levels, thriving in USDA Zones 2 to 11 and flourishing in full sun with well-drained, humusy soil. 

Heights can vary dramatically, from petite varieties at just 6 inches tall to towering plants that reach up to 4 feet, allowing you to customize your garden’s aesthetic effortlessly.

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Salvia

Salvia cultivars such as Salvia nemorosa and Salvia greggii, commonly known as autumn sage, should top your list. 

These clump-forming plants not only add stunning colors, mauve, pink, purple, and blue, but also serve as beacons for these pollinators. 

salvia flower

Standing at 18 to 36 inches tall, they create a delightful visual display while providing ample landing spots for visiting winged friends.

One of the best aspects of autumn sage is its adaptability; it thrives in USDA Growing Zones 4 to 11 and prefers full sun with well-drained soil that ranges from dry to medium moisture. 

This versatility makes it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to enrich their landscapes without excessive upkeep.

Bleeding Heart

Bleeding hearts, with their charming heart-shaped blooms in shades of pink and white, create a whimsical appeal that not only enchants gardeners but also beckons hummingbirds and butterflies to your outdoor oasis. 

bleeding heart flower

These perennial favorites flourish in part to full shade and thrive best in rich, moist, well-drained soil. 

Standing tall at 24 to 36 inches, they provide a perfect backdrop for attracting these delightful creatures. 

Butterflies flutter from bloom to bloom, they play an essential role in pollination while the agile hummingbirds dart around the garden, flitting eagerly between flowers.

Butterfly Bush

The butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii) stands out as an undeniable charm for attracting both hummingbirds and butterflies.

With clusters of vibrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and blue, this perennial powerhouse not only delights the eyes but also serves as a vital nectar source for these delightful pollinators. 

butterfly bush

Hummingbirds are especially drawn to its fragrant blooms, often hovering close to sip from the abundant nectar while showcasing their dazzling aerial acrobatics.

One fascinating aspect of the butterfly bush is its adaptability to various garden conditions. 

Thriving in USDA Growing Zones 5 to 10, it flourishes best under full sun and can tolerate moderately dry soil after establishing roots. 

This resilience means you can incorporate it into low-maintenance landscapes where beauty meets practicality. 

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Trumpet Creeper

The perennial trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans) is a vibrant addition to any garden, known for its stunning tubular flowers that serve as a magnet for hummingbirds. 

hummingbird attract trumpet creeper

These small birds are drawn to the rich orange, red, and yellow hues of the blooms, which mimic the colorful nectar-filled blossoms they naturally seek out in their habitat. 

Their aesthetic appeal, trumpet creepers are resilient plants that flourish in various conditions; they can thrive in USDA Growing Zones 4 to 10 with minimal fuss.

Lupine

Lupines are not just visually striking with their tall, flowered spikes; they also play a crucial role in attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden. 

Standing at heights of 3 to 4 feet, these plants make a compelling statement against the backdrop of vibrant colors like purple, blue, pink, and yellow. 

hummingbird attract lupine

Even if you opt for dwarf varieties that stay under 2 feet, their beauty remains captivating while making them perfect for smaller spaces.

Growing lupines requires specific conditions, sun exposure and well-drained soil that’s kept evenly moist with a slightly acidic pH. 

By meeting these needs, you create an inviting habitat that encourages hummingbirds to flit among the blossoms while butterflies enjoy the nectar-rich blooms throughout the growing season.

Eastern Red Columbine

The Eastern Red Columbine, scientifically known as Aquilegia canadensis, is a stunning addition to any garden looking to attract hummingbirds. 

Eastern red columbine flower

With its delicate, bell-shaped blooms that range in vibrant hues of red and yellow, this perennial plant creates an inviting landscape that’s hard for nectar-loving birds to resist. 

Reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet, it thrives in USDA Growing Zones 3 to 8 and flourishes best with average, well-drained soil,making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners seeking beauty without the fuss.

Petunia 

Petunias are vibrant additions to any garden, not only for their delightful colors but also for their ability to attract both hummingbirds and butterflies. 

These charming annuals flourish in full sun and thrive best in medium-moisture, well-drained soil, making them an ideal choice for gardeners looking to create a lively habitat. 

petunia

With a variety of colors, from soft pastels to striking brights, petunias can evoke different moods and themes throughout your garden space.

One fascinating aspect of petunias is their fragrance; many varieties emit sweet scents that further entice pollinators. 

By incorporating these flowers into your landscape design, you’re not just beautifying your space but also supporting the delicate balance of nature by inviting essential pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies. 

Conclusions 

Flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies into your garden not only enhances its beauty but also supports local wildlife. 

By selecting a mix of vibrant blooms like bee balm, coneflower, and salvia, you can create a lively habitat for these delightful creatures. 

Plant in clusters to make it easier for them to find food and ensure a continuous bloom throughout the growing season. 

By, providing water sources and shelter will encourage these pollinators to visit regularly. 

FAQs

What flower do hummingbirds like the most?

The most like flowers are bee balm, cardinal flower, geraniums, crocosmia, hibiscus, Canadian columbine, and trumpet vine.

What are hummingbirds most attracted to?

Hummingbirds can’t smell, but they see very well. They are particularly drawn to the colors red, orange, pink, and yellow.

Where do hummingbirds best?

Hummingbirds like to stay hidden in leafy trees that are close to water.

What does a hummingbird symbolize?

It represents smartness, attractiveness, dedication, and affection.