The world of gardening offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, often attracting diverse wildlife to our outdoor spaces. Among the most captivating visitors are hummingbirds, known for their iridescent plumage and remarkable aerial agility. These tiny birds are perpetually drawn to flowers, seeking the nectar that fuels their incredibly high metabolism. Understanding which blooms best serve their needs can transform a garden into a vibrant haven for these fascinating creatures.
Pansies and Hummingbirds: The Reality
While pansies are cherished for their vibrant colors and ability to thrive in cooler temperatures, they are not a primary food source for hummingbirds. Pansies generally produce very little nectar, which is insufficient for hummingbirds’ high energy needs. This low nectar content is a result of years of selective breeding in modern pansy varieties.
Hummingbirds occasionally visit pansies due to their bright hues. However, their visits are typically brief, as the flowers do not offer a substantial reward. Gardeners aiming to support these birds should consider other options that provide more accessible and abundant nectar.
Understanding Hummingbird Flower Preferences
Hummingbirds rely on sight rather than scent to find food. Their keen eyesight is sensitive to bright, saturated colors, with red and orange being highly attractive. They also visit flowers in shades of pink, purple, yellow, and blue. Unlike many insect pollinators, hummingbirds do not depend on floral fragrance.
Flower structure is another significant factor. Hummingbirds are suited to feed from tubular or trumpet-shaped blooms, which accommodate their long beaks and extendable tongues. This shape allows them to access nectar deep within the flower. Such flowers provide abundant high-sugar nectar, essential for these energetic birds.
Top Flower Choices for Hummingbirds
To create an inviting environment for hummingbirds, select flower species known for their nectar production and suitable shapes. Bee Balm (Monarda) is a favorite, offering tubular, nectar-rich blooms in shades of red, pink, or purple that are attractive to these birds.
Salvia varieties are excellent for attracting hummingbirds, featuring tubular flowers in a wide array of colors including reds, purples, and pinks. Many salvias provide a long blooming season, ensuring a continuous food source throughout much of the year.
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans) is named for its large, trumpet-shaped flowers, in vivid red or orange, that attract hummingbirds. This vine provides abundant nectar and is often called a “hummingbird vine.” Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis) offers brilliant red, tubular blooms, serving as an important nectar source. Petunias, with their bright colors and trumpet-like shapes, also attract hummingbirds.