Hummingbirds are attracted to the color red. This is because red flowers tend to produce more nectar than flowers of other colors. The red cypress vine is a flowering plant that produces bright red blooms, leading many to wonder if hummingbirds are drawn to it. In this article, we’ll explore what attracts hummingbirds to certain flowers, examine characteristics of the red cypress vine, and look at evidence to determine if hummingbirds do indeed like this red-blooming plant.
What attracts hummingbirds to flowers?
Hummingbirds have excellent color vision and are highly attracted to the color red and other bright, warm colors. This attraction is likely due to the coevolution of hummingbirds and certain flower species. Flowers pollinated by hummingbirds tend to be red and tubular in shape, providing nectar rewards for the birds. In turn, the hummingbirds serve as pollinators. Here are some of the key reasons hummingbirds are attracted to red flowers:
– Nectar – Hummingbirds have high metabolisms and require a lot of energy. Red flowers tend to produce more sucrose-rich nectar than flowers of other colors. Hummingbirds can remember which flowers provide the most nutritional nectar.
– Visibility – Against green foliage, red flowers are highly visible. Their bright color helps hummingbirds quickly identify flowers from a distance.
– Tubular shape – Many red hummingbird flowers have a narrow, tubular shape that matches the long beak of a hummingbird. This specialized shape allows access for the hummingbird but blocks certain insects.
– Coevolution – Hummingbirds and certain red flower species have evolved together. The flower characteristics appeal to hummingbird preferences. In return, the hummingbirds serve as efficient pollinators.
So in summary, red flowers provide key visual cues, energy rewards, and accessibility that attract hummingbirds. If a red flower also has a tubular shape, it is highly likely to get attention from these petite birds.
About the red cypress vine
The red cypress vine (Ipomoea quamoclit) is a fast-growing annual vine that blooms from summer to fall. Here are some key facts about this plant:
– Originating in tropical America, it can grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 8-11.
– When mature, it can grow up to 12 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
– Feathery, threadlike foliage provides a delicate texture. Leaves are divided into many linear segments.
– From summer to fall, it produces clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in vivid red.
– Flowers have a tubular shape perfect for hummingbird beaks.
– It thrives in full sun and needs little water once established. Can grow well in poor, dry soils.
– Typically grown as an annual but in warmer climates can perennialize.
– Very heat tolerant and does well in humid southern climates.
– Can be grown on trellises, arbors, fences, or nets. Climbs by twisting its leaf stems around supports.
With bright red tubular flowers and an affinity for heat, the characteristics of the red cypress vine seem well-suited to attract hummingbirds. But do hummingbirds take advantage of this food source in the wild?
Evidence that hummingbirds visit red cypress vine
Though native to tropical areas, red cypress vine is a popular ornamental plant in warmer regions of the United States. Here are some signs that hummingbirds visit and feed from this red-blooming plant:
Observations from gardeners
Anecdotal evidence from gardeners indicates hummingbirds are drawn to red cypress vine, especially in the south:
– Gardeners report seeing hummingbirds visiting red cypress vine flowers to feed on the nectar, particularly in late summer when it is actively blooming.
– Those with red cypress vine on trellises near porches or patios are able to observe hummingbird activity up close. The birds come within a few feet to access the flowers.
– Some gardeners add red cypress vine specifically to attract hummingbirds to their outdoor living spaces based on recommendations from books or local nurseries.
Recommendations from wildlife organizations
Wildlife organizations focused on birds, pollinators, or hummingbirds often recommend planting red cypress vine. This includes:
– The Audubon Society includes red cypress vine in its list of top plants that attract hummingbirds.
– The National Wildlife Federation also recommends it as an annual plant that brings hummingbirds to backyards and gardens.
– Regional wildlife groups in southern states like Texas, Louisiana, and Florida specifically recommend red cypress vine to homeowners wanting to provide food sources for hummingbirds in those areas.
Documented in research
Though limited, some research studies have documented the role of red cypress vine in providing nectar for hummingbirds:
– A study of hummingbird activity in urban Houston yards found hummingbirds regularly visited red cypress vine, particularly in late summer when it bloomed. It was a top nectar source.
– Research on plant pollination in the southwestern U.S. found that migrating hummingbirds helped pollinate red cypress vine plants in that region. The birds were seeking it out specifically for its nectar.
– One study examined preferred characteristics of hummingbird nectar plants. It classified red cypress vine as having high ornithophily, or bird pollination adaptions, indicating hummingbird preference for it.
Use in hummingbird friendly gardens
In public gardens focused on attracting hummingbirds, red cypress vine is often a key component:
– The hummingbird garden at the Houston Arboretum includes red cypress vine climbing up lattice and trellises around feeding stations. Volunteers report consistent hummingbird traffic.
– At the Tucson Botanical Gardens in Arizona, the hummingbird garden relies heavily on red cypress vine to cover shade structures and provide nectar-rich red blooms.
– Red cypress vine is on the list of recommended plants at the botanical garden in Boise, Idaho for those wishing to design a garden to provide food for hummingbirds.
Conclusion
In reviewing characteristics of the red cypress vine, along with observational and research evidence, it appears that yes, hummingbirds do enjoy visiting this red-blooming plant, especially in late summer when it is actively flowering. The tubular shape and ample nectar reward attract these energetic birds. By planting red cypress vine, gardeners can create a beautiful ornamental display while also inviting hummingbirds for an up-close view. To increase visits, provide additional water sources nearby and limit use of pesticides. With its love of heat and climbing habit, red cypress vine is right at home in a southern hummingbird garden.
