Top 10 Flowers to Attract Hummingbirds

Everyone gets excited when they spot a hummingbird in their yard.

The ruby-throated hummingbird with its shimmering iridescent  plumage has such widespread appeal that gardeners put out feeders designed specifically for hummingbirds. But you can also greatly increase the number of sightings if you plant nectar rich flowers, which are very attractive to hummingbirds. 

In Maryland, the ruby-throated hummingbird is the only hummingbird that migrates from Central America to arrive here in April and May. It is the smallest bird in the state, and the rapid movement of its wings make a low buzzing sound, which is how the hummingbird got its name.

This hummingbird makes a tiny nest, raises young and departs for the south when the weather cools in September. As an added benefit, hummers, like bees, help transfer pollen from one flower to another.

To draw in the birds, you need to plant brightly colored tubular flowers, usually orange, red, or yellow. But hummers will also go to other colored flowers as long as they are a rich nectar producing flower. They have no sense of smell, and search out flowers with high visibility. The newer flower hybrids don't produce as much nectar as the old-fashioned varieties so select a variety of wild and native flowers that will bloom at successively later dates and you will be rewarded with lots of hummer visits.

The following list shows the top ten plants that you can use to attract hummingbirds:

• Trumpet vine
• Bee Balm
• Coral Bells
• Yucca
• Salvia
• Lantana
• Butterfly Weed
• Mimosa
• Red Columbine
• Butterfly Bush