Hummingbirds are amazing little creatures that bring joy to backyard bird watchers everywhere. Their tiny size and incredible flying abilities make them a delight to observe. Hummingbirds are also important pollinators that help flowers reproduce. But with over 300 different species of hummingbirds in the Americas, their preferences for flowers vary.
Do hummingbirds dislike any flowers?
Hummingbirds need nectar as their main food source and will visit many brightly colored tubular flowers to drink nectar. However, there are some flowers that hummingbirds tend to avoid or are not attracted to for various reasons:
- Flowers with little or no nectar – Hummingbirds have a very fast metabolism and need to consume a lot of nectar daily from flowers to survive. Flowers that produce minimal nectar are not worth their effort.
- Flowers with thick or inaccessible nectaries – Hummingbirds have slender, pointed bills that are perfect for reaching into tubular flowers and lapping up nectar. Flowers where the nectar is deeply hidden or protected are difficult for hummingbirds to feed from.
- Strongly scented flowers – Many flowers rely on scent to attract pollinators. However, hummingbirds do not have a strong sense of smell and are more attracted by vision. Strongly scented flowers therefore do not appeal to them.
- Bell-shaped flowers – The shape of many bell-shaped flowers makes it tricky for hummingbirds to access the nectar inside. They prefer flowers with a more open shape.
- Non-native species – Hummingbirds coevolved with native plant species over thousands of years. When it comes to non-native ornamental flowers, they tend to prefer those with an appearance and structure similar to native plants.
What types of flowers do hummingbirds prefer?
Hummingbirds are most attracted to tubular, brightly colored flowers with an open shape that allows easy access to nectar. Some of their favorite flowers include:
| Flower | Reason hummingbirds are attracted |
|---|---|
| Trumpet Vine | Bright red color, tubular shape, ample nectar |
| Bee Balm | Brightly colored, landing platform, continuously producing nectar |
| Cardinal Flower | Bright red, tubular shape with easy access to nectar |
| Columbine | Long nectar spurs that perfectly fit hummingbird beaks |
| Fuchsia | Bright pink/red coloring, hanging shape allows access |
| Canna Lily | Red/orange color, open shape, large amounts of nectar |
| Petunia | Tubular shape, bright colors including reds/purples |
| Salvia | Open shaped, abundant nectar producer, red color |
As the table shows, hummingbirds are often attracted to red tubular flowers with an open shape that allows them easy access to nectar. They remember favorite flowers and will return to those providing a good source of nutrition.
What flower characteristics do hummingbirds avoid?
There are a few key flower characteristics that hummingbirds tend to avoid when seeking nectar sources:
- Lack of color – Hummingbirds are visual creatures attracted to bright colors like red, orange, pink and purple. Green, white or dull flowers do not catch their attention.
- Limited nectar – Hummingbirds need a lot of nectar. They avoid flowers that produce only tiny amounts of nectar not worth their effort.
- Thick petals/tubes – Thick, dense areas can make nectar hard to access for hummingbirds. They prefer flowers with thinner petals for easier feeding.
- Deep tubes – Very long, narrow tubes are tricky for hummingbirds to insert their beaks into. They prefer shorter or wider openings.
- Tightly closed – Flowers that are closed with minimal openings also limit accessibility to nectar for hummingbirds.
- Bell-shaped – As mentioned earlier, the round shape and drooping orientation of bells make it hard for hummingbirds to reach inside.
By understanding what hummingbirds avoid, you can choose flowers to attract them to your garden. Prioritize open, tubular flowers in bright colors with ample nectar production.
Do hummingbirds dislike any specific flowers?
While hummingbirds aren’t attracted to some types of flowers, there aren’t many they specifically “dislike.” However, a couple flowers that hummingbirds tend to avoid include:
- Calla Lilies – These are bell-shaped with thick petals and little nectar. All characteristics hummingbirds avoid.
- Daffodils – The tubular shape looks promising but daffodils actually contain little nectar so hummingbirds quickly learn to avoid them.
- Cherry Blossoms – Pretty but contain no nectar and hummingbirds quickly realize they offer no reward.
You’re unlikely to ever see a hummingbird at these types of flowers as they quickly learn these plants don’t meet their nutritional needs. But again, there are relatively few flowers that hummingbirds outright dislike – they are opportunistic and will try most flowers at least once.
How to choose the best flowers to attract hummingbirds
Here are some tips for selecting the best flowers for your garden to attract hummingbirds:
- Choose red, orange, pink or purple tubular flowers – these colors attract hummingbirds the most.
- Look for flowers with an open shape allowing easy access to nectar.
- Research options native to your region – native plants have coevolved with hummingbirds.
- Offer a range of flower shapes – different hummingbird species have different beak types. Provide options for both short and long beaks.
- Have a succession of blooms – avoid gaps in flowering so a nectar source is always available.
- Plant in groups – masses of color will attract more hummingbirds.
- Supplement with feeders – provide feeders as another nectar source.
Choosing a variety of colorful, tubular flowers from early spring through late summer will create an attractive, reliable nectar source for hummingbirds in your area. Don’t forget to avoid planting flowers they dislike such as calla lilies and daffodils.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds have unique evolutionary adaptations that have given them a strong preference for certain flower characteristics. While they will visit many different flower types, they are most attracted to brightly colored tubular flowers that provide an abundant nectar reward. By planting the flowers hummingbirds favor and avoiding those they dislike, you can successfully draw these tiny, energetic birds to your garden.
