Hummingbirds are amazing little birds that capture the imagination with their energetic flying and hovering as they dart from flower to flower. Their ability to fly backwards and upside down makes them fascinating to watch. With over 300 species, hummingbirds are found only in the Americas. Their range extends from Alaska to Chile but the majority of species are found in the tropics. Hummingbirds are classed as part of the family Trochilidae.
Do hummingbirds like particular flowers?
Yes, hummingbirds are highly attracted to flowers with tubular or funnel shaped blossoms which match their long, slender beaks and tongues. The blossoms typically produce large amounts of nectar which the hummingbirds drink with their specialized tongue that extends past the tip of the beak. Some examples of tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds are:
- Trumpet vine
- Coral honeysuckle
- Cardinal flower
- Columbine
- Bee balm
- Foxglove
- Morning glory
These flowers allow the hummingbird easy access to insert their long beak and lap up the nectar inside. The tubular shape also means the nectar is not exposed to the elements or insects.
What type of bushes do hummingbirds like?
Hummingbirds are drawn to many different flowering bushes that provide an abundance of nectar-rich blooms. Some of the top bushes that attract hummingbirds are:
- Butterfly bush – Has fragrant, nectar-filled flowers that bloom from summer through fall. There are many color varieties.
- Flowering quince – Produces vibrant red, orange or pink trumpet-shaped blooms in early spring.
- Weigela – Blooms spring through summer with clusters of tubular flowers in shades of pink, red and white.
- Lilac – Features sweetly fragrant flowers in spring that hummingbirds love.
- Rose of Sharon – An August bloomer, it has hibiscus-like flowers with tubular centers.
- Red buckeye – Has drooping, tubular red flowers that attract hummingbirds.
These bushes provide plentiful nectar for hummingbirds through their long flowering periods. Planting several together creates an attractive, hummingbird-friendly garden area.
What is the best hummingbird bush?
One of the very best flowering bushes to attract hummingbirds is butterfly bush (Buddleia). Reasons that it is an excellent choice include:
- It has fragrant, tubular shaped flowers with lots of nectar.
- Blooms throughout the summer and into fall when other flowers have finished.
- There are many color varieties such as purple, pink, red and yellow.
- The bush has a long flowering period, keeping hummingbirds fed.
- It is low maintenance and easy to grow in most climates.
- Provides habitat for butterflies and insects too.
Butterfly bush is highly attractive to hummingbirds and easy for gardeners to grow. It can be planted with other hummingbird-friendly flowers and bushes to create beautiful, active garden spaces.
Where should I plant a hummingbird bush?
Here are some tips on where to plant bush varieties that attract hummingbirds:
- Plant in an open, sunny area of the garden as hummingbirds are drawn to light.
- Avoid planting near dense trees or bushes that could obstruct flight paths.
- Place it near other hummingbird plants and nectar feeders to create activity.
- Allow at least 3 feet of space between the bush and other plants or structures.
- A south facing location is ideal to provide warmth and light.
- Provide some shelter from strong winds which can deter hummingbirds.
By situating a hummingbird bush properly, you’ll create the kind of space and environment that hummingbirds gravitate towards. This will encourage them to visit and provide plenty of viewing opportunities.
What is the best way to care for a hummingbird bush?
Proper care and maintenance will keep your hummingbird bush flowering and attractive. Here are some tips:
- Select the right size bush for its space and prune to shape.
- Water 1-2 inches per week for optimal growth.
- Use compost or fertilizer to provide key nutrients.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flowers.
- Watch for pests and disease and treat any issues promptly.
- Trim back by 1/3 each year in late winter to maintain vigorous growth.
- Protect from harsh weather in very cold or hot climates.
With the right care, hummingbird bushes will thrive and provide color and interest. Their pretty flowers and active hummingbird visitors will make them a delightful addition to any garden.
How can I attract more hummingbirds to my bush?
You can encourage more hummingbird activity around your bushes with these tips:
- Plant brightly colored, tubular flowers in red, orange, pink or purple.
- Choose bushes with continuous blooms versus a short single flowering period.
- Include multiple types of flowering bushes and plants nearby.
- Hang a nectar feeder or two in the area for supplemental feeding.
- Provide a water feature such as a mister, fountain or small pool.
- Eliminate the use of pesticides which can deter hummingbirds.
- Set out a perch for hummingbirds to rest near the flowers.
Taking steps to create an inviting habitat full of food, water and shelter will increase hummingbird traffic around your bushes and keep them coming back.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds bring beauty and excitement to gardens with their dazzling appearances at flowers. Planting bush varieties that provide tubular blooms with ample nectar will attract these special birds. Butterfly bush is a top choice but there are many options. Proper planting location and care will ensure the bushes thrive. With the addition of feeders, water and perches, hummingbirds will flock to your blooming buffet.