The arrival of hummingbirds is a welcome sight for many gardeners. These tiny birds require a constant supply of high-energy nectar to fuel their rapid metabolism, making them highly selective about the flowers they visit. As you plan your garden to attract them, it is natural to consider common garden staples like phlox. Determining the viability of phlox as a primary nectar source requires looking closely at the different varieties and the specific floral characteristics hummingbirds seek.
Suitability of Different Phlox Varieties
Phlox is a large genus of flowering plants, but its suitability for hummingbirds depends heavily on the specific species planted. The two most common types are the tall garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) and the low-growing creeping phlox (Phlox subulata). Garden phlox is generally considered a good option, featuring tall stems that produce large clusters of tubular flowers in mid to late summer. This shape is well-suited to a hummingbird’s long, slender beak, offering a rich source of nectar.
In contrast, creeping phlox provides much less value, though it is sometimes mentioned as an early spring food source. This variety grows low to the ground, usually only about six inches tall, which is not an ideal height for a hovering bird. Although the flowers are tubular and rich in nectar, the structure and height make the taller garden phlox a significantly better choice for consistent attraction. If choosing creeping phlox, select a deep pink or violet cultivar, as they may be more noticeable than white varieties.
Key Floral Traits That Attract Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds do not rely on scent to find food, instead using their excellent vision to locate bright, nectar-rich flowers. They are primarily drawn to specific floral features that indicate an easily accessible, high-volume energy source. The most recognized trait is color, with red and orange being particularly attractive. Hummingbirds can see colors in the ultraviolet spectrum, which helps them spot bold, vibrant blooms.
The shape of the flower is also important, with long, tubular or trumpet-shaped blossoms being the most preferred. This structure limits access to insects like bees, effectively reserving the sugary reward for the hummingbird. Flowers also need to produce an abundant volume of nectar to support the bird’s high metabolism, which requires consuming its entire body weight in nectar daily. Garden phlox, with its tubular flowers and tall height, aligns better with these preferences than its creeping counterpart.
Maximizing Attraction with Companion Plants
While garden phlox is a beneficial addition, relying solely on it will not ensure a consistent presence of hummingbirds. A more effective strategy involves planting a diverse range of flowers to ensure a continuous nectar supply from spring through fall. Staggering bloom times is important, providing food when phlox is not in flower, such as in early summer or late autumn.
Specific companion plants are recommended because they possess the ideal tubular shape and vibrant colors that hummingbirds seek. Plants like scarlet bee balm (Monarda didyma), cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis), and penstemon all feature tubular blooms, often in shades of red or pink. Planting these high-value options in large groupings, or drifts, creates a bold visual signal that hummingbirds can spot from a distance, establishing a reliable feeding zone.
Beyond the flowers, garden design can enhance the habitat for hummingbirds. Providing a source of fresh water, such as a shallow bubbler fountain, is important for both drinking and bathing. Including small trees or large shrubs nearby, such as dwarf conifers, offers perching spots where the birds can rest and survey their territory. These elements, combined with nectar-rich plants, transform a yard into a complete and supportive ecosystem.