Unveiling the Secret Garden of Hummingbird-Attracting Perennials
Female Ruby-Throated Hummingbird enjoying Red Cardinal Flower and Liatris.
Welcome to the grand finale of our hummingbird garden series, where we explore the enchanting world of herbaceous perennials that beckon these winged wonders into our gardens. As we bid adieu to this journey, I am excited to have showcased 20 native plants through this series that not only captivate with their beauty but also serve as vital sources of nectar and shelter for hummingbirds and many other precious pollinators. The crazy thing is that I’ve only shared 1/2 of my research with you! So if you are as hummingbird-obsessed as I am, I’d love to invite you to download my e-book featuring over 40 native plants that our feathered friends love (COMING SOON)! Now let’s dive into the vibrant hues and unique characteristics of 5 herbaceous perennial favorites, and discover how they can transform your garden into a haven for these delightful creatures.
As a reminder, all of these plants were verified native plants to Hanover, Virginia via the Digital Atlas of the Virginia Flora. All other details were pulled from the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Tool Box.
Lobelia cardinalis (Cardinal Flower)
Welcome the vibrant hues of the Cardinal Flower into your garden. With its striking red blooms and tall spikes, this native perennial is a beacon for hummingbirds, drawing them in with its plentiful nectar. Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade to full sun for best results. Watch as these fiery blooms bring life and color to your garden while providing essential sustenance for your winged visitors.
Bloom Time: Summer
Soil Conditions: Consistently moist soil; thirsty in full sun
Size: 2-4 feet
Light Requirements: Flexible, but prefers part sun
Special Notes: This grows wild around the ponds in my neighborhood. It is definitely okay with wet feet and may be appropriate for a rain garden.
Monarda didyma ‘Gardenview Scarlet’
(Bee Balm)
Add a splash of scarlet to your garden with 'Gardenview Scarlet' Bee Balm. This showy perennial features clusters of crimson-red flowers atop sturdy stems, creating a visual feast for both gardeners and hummingbirds. Easy to grow and drought-tolerant, Bee Balm thrives in full sun to partial shade and attracts a myriad of pollinators, making it a must-have for any wildlife-friendly garden. There are lots of choices for bee balm including white, red, purple, and many shades in between! They also vary widely in their size and growth habits.
Bloom Time: Summer
Soil Needs: Moist Well-Drained Soil
Size: 2-4 feet
Light Requirements: full sun
Special Notes: I chose a cultivar here because it far exceeded the performance of the straight species in both health and vigor in the Mt. Cuba Center Monarda plant trials. I’d encourage you to reference them when selecting the best bee balm (and many other plants for that matter) for your landscape. ‘Jacob Cline’ is also a great red selection, however, it is taller and from my understanding needs space to naturalize.
📷: Mt. Cuba Center
Delphinium tricorne (Dwarf Larkspur)
Elevate your garden with the delicate beauty of Dwarf Larkspur. This native perennial boasts tall spikes adorned with clusters of charming blue flowers, providing a delightful contrast to your garden landscape. Preferring moist, well-drained soil in partial shade, Dwarf Larkspur is a graceful addition to woodland gardens and attracts hummingbirds with its abundant nectar.
Bloom Time: Spring
Soil Needs: medium well-drained soil
SizeL 1-2 feet
Sun Requirements: full sun, partial shade
Aquilegia canadensis (Columbine)
Invite the whimsical elegance of Columbine into your garden. Known for its unique spurred flowers in shades of red and yellow, this native perennial adds a touch of charm to any landscape. Columbine thrives in dappled shade and well-drained soil, making it ideal for woodland gardens and shady borders. Hummingbirds are drawn to its nectar-rich blooms, making it a delightful addition to your garden ecosystem.
Bloom Time: Spring
Soil Type: Moist Well Drained Soil
Size: 1.5 feet
Sunlight Requirements: Shade
Special Notes: Unique leaf structure after blooming continues to bring interest to the garden
Salvia lyrata (Lyre-Leaf Sage)
Embrace the beauty of Lyre-Leaf Sage in your garden. With its striking purple spikes and distinctive foliage, this hardy perennial makes a bold statement in any landscape. Thriving in dry to medium moisture and well-drained soil, Lyre-Leaf Sage is a versatile addition to rock gardens, borders, and meadows. Hummingbirds flock to its tubular flowers, adding movement and color to your outdoor space.
Bloom Time: Summer
Soil Conditions: Moist Well Drained Soil; occasionally dry
Size: 1-2 feet
Sun Requirements: All light conditions
Special Notes: Tolerates wet conditions and is appropriate for a rain garden; American goldfinch enjoy the seeds; it also tolerates mowing so it can work as lawn alternative.
As we bring our hummingbird garden series to a close, we reflect on the beauty and wonder that these tiny birds bring to our lives. From towering trees to delicate perennials, each plant we've explored has played a role in creating a welcoming habitat for hummingbirds in our gardens. As you embark on your own gardening journey, I encourage you to consider incorporating these native perennials into your landscape. By doing so, you not only enhance the natural beauty of your surroundings but also contribute to the preservation of many precious pollinators. Thank you for joining us on this adventure, and may your gardens forever be filled with the delightful sights and sounds of hummingbirds. April 15-September 15 are the best time of the year!
Keep Blooming,
Nicole Dillon- Breemar Flower Farm | Ashland, VA
P.S. Here’s a BONUS BULB that hummingbirds love!
Liatris spicata (Blazing Star)
Add a vertical pop of color to your garden with the striking blooms of Liatris spicata, also known as Blazing Star. This native bulbous perennial features tall spikes adorned with fluffy purple flowers that bloom from mid to late summer, attracting hummingbirds with their abundant nectar. Easy to grow and low maintenance, Liatris spicata thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a perfect companion for other hummingbird-friendly plants. Incorporate this charming bulb into your garden for a burst of color and wildlife activity.
Bloom Time: Summer/Fall
Soil Requirements: medium well drained; but appreciates moisture than some other Liatris
Size: 2-6 feet (the foliage is low to the ground while the flower spikes soar)
Sun Requirements: full sun
Special Notes: Supports specialist bees and is also appropriate in rain gardens.
