Million Bells (Calibrachoa) are a popular flowering plant grown in gardens and landscapes. They are known for their prolific flowering and come in a wide range of colors. Hummingbirds are attracted to the nectar many flowering plants produce and are important pollinators. This article will explore whether Million Bells attract and provide food for hummingbirds.
About Million Bells
Million Bells are tender perennials that are native to South America. They are closely related to petunias and are sometimes called “trailing petunias.” Million Bells have a spreading, mounding habit and bloom continuously from spring to frost with prolific small, trumpet-shaped flowers. They perform best in full sun and well-drained soil. These carefree plants require little maintenance except for occasional deadheading to encourage more blooms.
Some key facts about Million Bells:
- Genus and species: Calibrachoa x hybrida
- Hardiness: Generally grown as annuals; perennial in zones 9-11
- Plant type: Tender perennial, often grown as an annual
- Height: 6-12 inches
- Spread: 12-24 inches
- Flower size: 1 inch
- Flower shape: Trumpet-shaped, resembling petite petunias
- Bloom time: Spring to frost
- Colors: Wide color range including solids, bicolors, and patterns
- Light: Full sun
- Care: Low maintenance
Million Bells bloom freely all season without the need for deadheading, although removing spent blooms will encourage more flowering. The flowers have a mild, sweet fragrance that is most noticeable in the evenings. Plants thrive in full sun and coarse, well-drained soil. Give them average watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilize them monthly with a balanced flower fertilizer during the growing season.
About Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are small, fast-flying birds native to the Americas. Their rapid wing beats and ability to hover sets them apart from other bird species. There are over 300 different hummingbird species, the vast majority native to tropical and subtropical Central and South America. Some key facts about hummingbirds:
- Size: Most species 2-4 inches long
- Wingspan: 3-5 inches
- Heart rate: Over 500 beats per minute
- Breaths per minute: 250 at rest, up to 500 in flight
- Flight speed: 25-30 mph; some species can reach 60 mph during courtship dives
- Wings: Beat up to 70 times per second
- Diet: Nectar, tree sap, small insects and spiders
- Daily intake: Up to 2-3 times their weight in nectar, hundreds of flower visits daily
- Annual migration: Some species migrate hundreds or thousands of miles
Hummingbirds have specially adapted wings and a unique hovering ability that allows them to fly backwards, upside down, and in place while feeding on flower nectar. Their long, specially adapted beaks and tongues allow them to retrieve nectar from tubular flowers. While tiny, they have incredibly high metabolisms and must consume hundreds of flower blossoms daily to sustain their energy needs.
Providing nectar-rich flowers in gardens gives hummingbirds the continuous food source they require. Once they find suitable flowers, they will return frequently to feed.
Do Hummingbirds Like Million Bells?
The short answer is yes! Hummingbirds are attracted to Million Bells and will happily sip nectar from their flowers. There are a few reasons why Million Bells make an excellent hummingbird plant:
- Nectar-rich flowers: Million Bells produce a decent amount of nectar in each blossom, providing precious energy.
- Red flowers: Hummingbirds are especially drawn to red and orange flowers. Red Million Bells varieties are magnets.
- Tubular shape: The trumpet shape allows hummers easy access to nectar.
- Prolific blooms: Nonstop flowers provide a constant nectar source all season.
- Compact shape: The mounding shape makes for easy hovering and feeding access.
The prolific blooms of Million Bells ensure hummingbirds will have a reliable, abundant nectar source from spring through fall. Planting them near windows and seating areas allows for fun observation of hummingbird activity. You can sit and enjoy watching the lightning-fast hummers dart from flower to flower sipping nectar.
Do hummingbirds have a favorite Million Bells variety?
Hummingbirds don’t seem to play favorites when it comes to Million Bells varieties. They will visit any color of bloom though red, orange, and yellow flowers tend to draw them in more than other shades. Some excellent Million Bells for hummingbirds include:
- Million Bells Red
- Million Bells Terra Cotta
- Million Bells Sunset Orange
- Million Bells Trailing Yellow
- Million Bells Trailing Pink
Any color of Million Bells will attract hummingbirds however, since they provide a continuous nectar source. Planting a combination of colors creates a stunning, multi-hued hummingbird garden the birds will flock to.
Tips for Using Million Bells to Attract Hummingbirds
Here are some useful tips to get the most hummingbird activity from Million Bells plantings:
- Plant in masses – Group 3-5 plants together in full sun areas. Masses of flowers are more visible to hummingbirds.
- Include red blooms – Be sure to incorporate some red varieties which are hummingbird favorites.
- Provide plenty of flowers – Hummingbirds eat up to half their weight in nectar daily. The more flowers, the better.
- Site near water – A mister, dripline, or small water feature will provide water for bathing and drinking.
- Supplement with feeders – Offering nectar feeders provides backup food on cold or rainy days when not as many flowers bloom.
- Avoid pesticides – Pesticides can be harmful to hummingbirds. Use organic methods instead.
- Deadhead spent blooms – Remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms which provide fresh nectar.
- Plant where visible – Site Million Bells where you can view visiting hummers, such as by windows and patios.
Following these tips will create an enticing, hummingbird friendly space that brings in more of these special birds to appreciate and enjoy.
Other Flowering Plants that Attract Hummingbirds
While Million Bells are an excellent nectar source, providing a diversity of flowering plants will bring in more hummingbirds and provide blooms from spring through fall. Here are some other top hummingbird flowers:
- Zinnias
- Petunias
- Salvia
- Bee balm
- Cardinal flower
- Columbine
- Trumpet vine
- Fuchsia
- Lantana
- Sages
- Penstemon
- Coral bells
- Gladiolus
Aim for a variety of flower colors, shapes, sizes and bloom times to attract the most hummingbirds throughout the seasons. Don’t forget to include flowering trees and shrubs as well, which provide important early spring nectar sources such as:
- Bottlebrush
- Citrus trees
- Weigela
- Red buckeye
- Mimosa
- Rose of Sharon
Conclusion
In conclusion, Million Bells are an excellent flower for attracting and feeding hungry hummingbirds. Their nonstop blooms provide a reliable daily nectar source that hummingbirds rely on. While hummers will visit any color, they seem especially drawn to warm shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Planting Million Bells in masses, near water sources, and where they can be viewed will maximize hummingbird appeal and activity. Supplement with additional flowering plants and feeders to support hummingbirds throughout the seasons. With a little planning, Million Bells can help provide the needs of these special pollinators and bring their beauty up close for your enjoyment.
