Pineapple sage is a popular garden plant known for its vibrant red flowers and sweet pineapple scent. Many gardeners grow this plant in hopes of attracting hummingbirds to their yard. But does pineapple sage really bring in more of these energetic little birds?
What is pineapple sage?
Pineapple sage (Salvia elegans) is a herbaceous perennial plant in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to Mexico and Guatemala. The plant grows 2-4 feet tall and has bright green leaves with a fruity, pineapple-like fragrance when crushed. Pineapple sage produces dense whorls of tubular red flowers at the ends of its stems in late summer and fall. These flowers have the same tangy scent as the foliage.
Characteristics of pineapple sage flowers
There are a few key characteristics of pineapple sage flowers that make them appealing to hummingbirds:
- Bright red color – Hummingbirds are attracted to tubular flowers in the red to orange color spectrum.
- Nectar-rich – The pineapple sage flowers produce abundant nectar which hummingbirds depend on for energy.
- Tubular shape – The tubular flower shape perfectly suits the long, slender beaks of hummingbirds.
- Fragrance – Hummingbirds have a good sense of smell and are drawn to sweet, fruity aromas.
Do hummingbirds actually visit pineapple sage?
Many gardeners report great success in attracting hummingbirds with pineapple sage. The bright red blossoms and sweet fragrance are hard for hummingbirds to resist. Here are some examples of hummingbirds favoring this plant:
- Ruby-throated hummingbirds regularly visit pineapple sage flowers in the Eastern U.S.
- Anna’s hummingbirds stop by pineapple sage in gardens along the West Coast.
- Costa’s hummingbirds feed on pineapple sage in the Southwest desert.
- Broad-tailed and rufous hummingbirds seek out pineapple sage in the Rocky Mountains.
Gardeners often see increases in hummingbird activity and numbers after planting pineapple sage. The birds may visit other flowers as well, but they flock to the tubular red blooms of pineapple sage in particular. Providing a consistent, abundant nectar source with this plant helps attract and sustain hummingbird populations.
When to plant pineapple sage for hummingbirds
One key to successfully attracting hummingbirds with pineapple sage is timing. Hummingbirds are most active in the yard during their spring and fall migration periods. Here are some recommendations on when to plant pineapple sage in different regions:
- Northern states – Plant in spring after the last frost so flowers bloom in late summer/fall.
- Southern states – Plant in fall or winter for flowers the following late summer into fall.
- Southwest states – Plant in fall or spring for flowers summer through fall.
- West Coast – Plant in early spring for blooms midsummer into fall.
Providing pineapple sage flowers when hummingbirds are most present in your area will maximize their appeal. Keep in mind it may take a new plant 2-3 years to reach full maturity and the heaviest flower production.
Where to position pineapple sage in your garden
Placement of pineapple sage in your yard can also affect how attractive it is to hummingbirds. Here are some tips on where to situate the plant:
- Full to part sun exposure – At least 4-6 hours of direct sun per day.
- Against a bright backdrop – Near red flowers, red brick walls, or red feeders.
- Near water sources – Hummingbird feeders, fountains, or garden ponds.
- Away from competing flowers – Limit other red tubular flowers nearby.
- In raised beds or pots – Elevate flowers to eye level with hummingbirds.
Positioning pineapple sage where hummingbirds are most likely to notice and access it will increase visits to the plant.
Companion plants for pineapple sage
While pineapple sage alone can draw in hummingbirds, combining it with other hummingbird-friendly flowers will provide an even greater attraction. Some top companion plants include:
Plant | Color | Season |
---|---|---|
Cardinal flower | Red | Summer |
Hosta | Lavender | Summer |
Bee balm | Red | Summer |
Canna lily | Red, orange, yellow | Summer into fall |
Fuchsia | Red, pink | Summer to frost |
Petunia | Red, pink, purple | Summer to frost |
Columbine | Red, yellow | Spring |
Interplanting several flowers that bloom at different times extends the feeding season for hummingbirds. Place pineapple sage among other hummingbird favorites for maximum effect.
Providing additional habitat features
Providing habitat features beyond flowers is also important for attracting and retaining hummingbirds in your yard. Consider incorporating these other elements:
- Water sources – Dripping fountains or waterfalls provide drinking and bathing areas.
- Feeders – Nectar feeders provide supplemental food.
- Shelter – Trees, shrubs, trellises offer protection and perching.
- Nesting sites – Woody shrubs and trees give nesting materials and locations.
- Native plants – Diverse native species support the ecosystem.
In addition to pineapple sage, providing for the other basic needs of hummingbirds encourages them to take up residence and raise young.
Caring for pineapple sage
To keep pineapple sage looking its best and producing an abundance of flowers, provide the plant with proper care:
- Sun – At least 6 hours of direct sun per day. More is better.
- Soil – Well-drained, enriched soil or potting mix.
- Water – Moderate watering, avoid letting soil dry out.
- Fertilizer – Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks in spring/summer.
- Pruning – Prune lightly in spring to shape, remove dead stems.
With the right growing conditions, pineapple sage will thrive and produce waves of hummingbird-enticing blooms.
How to use pineapple sage as a companion plant
Pineapple sage not only attracts hummingbirds on its own, it also serves as an excellent companion plant. Its bright flowers and tropical fragrance complement many other species in flower beds. Here are some ways to use pineapple sage as a companion:
- Underplant with spring bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
- Edge garden beds and walkways.
- Group in clusters of 3-5 plants for greater visual impact.
- Interplant with cool blue flowers like lobelia.
- Combine with other herbs like lavender and basil.
- Place near vegetables and fruit trees.
- Naturalize along fences.
- Grow in containers on patios and decks.
Pineapple sage complements just about any garden setting. Use its bright colors and fragrance as a focal point or part of attractive combinations.
Other tips for attracting hummingbirds
In addition to providing pineapple sage plants, there are a few other simple tips gardeners can follow to bring more hummingbirds into their landscape:
- Hang nectar feeders in shade to slow spoilage of nectar.
- Use a nectar mix of 1 part sugar to 4 parts water.
- Change nectar every 2-3 days (daily in hot weather).
- Provide fresh water in a mister, fountain or bird baths.
- Sit quietly and watch for hummingbirds at flowers and feeders.
- Avoid using pesticides which can harm the birds.
- Set up a hummingbird camera to get live action images.
With a little effort, you can create an enticing space that hummingbirds will flock to all season long.
Conclusion
Pineapple sage lives up to its reputation as a fabulous hummingbird plant. The bright red tubular flowers, abundant nectar and sweet fragrance are irresistible to these energetic little pollinators. Planting pineapple sage when and where hummingbirds are most active increases its effectiveness. Combining with other flowers, water sources, feeders and habitat will provide an even greater draw. Caring properly for pineapple sage ensures the best floral display. With the right growing conditions, this beautiful and aromatic plant can bring abundant hummingbird activity to your garden year after year.