Hummingbirds are some of the most fascinating birds to observe in nature. Their ability to hover and fly backwards sets them apart from other birds. Hummingbirds get their name from the audible hum created by their rapidly beating wings. Their Latin name, Trochilidae, literally means “little birds” in Greek. These tiny birds have captured people’s imaginations for centuries. When wondering what type of tree attracts hummingbirds, the key factors to consider are tubular flowers, red blooms, plenty of nectar, and trees located in the appropriate growing zones.
Key Factors That Attract Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are highly attracted to several key features when seeking out plants and trees. Understanding what attracts these energetic birds can help you select the ideal trees and flowers to draw hummingbirds to your yard. Here are the main factors that attract hummingbirds:
Tubular Flowers
Flowers with a tubular or trumpet-like shape are highly attractive to hummingbirds. The narrow tubes perfectly suit the hummingbird’s long, slender beak and tongue which allows them to retrieve the nectar inside. Flowers with this shape are ideal for hummingbirds since other pollinators like bees cannot always access the nectar. Some examples of tubular flowers include honeysuckles, trumpet vines, nasturtiums, and certain salvias. When selecting trees and flowers, focus on those with tubular blooms.
Red Blooms
Hummingbirds are drawn to the color red. They have excellent color vision and pollinate red flowers at higher rates than other colors. This preference for red flowers may be because red blooms are bee-pollinated less frequently, so more nectar rewards await the hummingbirds. Some red blooms that attract hummingbirds include bee balm, cardinal flower, fuchsias, and coral berry. Include several red flowering plants in your landscape to create an enticing look for these visually-oriented birds.
Plentiful Nectar
Hummingbirds consume a lot of energy and rely heavily on drinking nectar from flowers. Their rapid metabolism requires they eat up to twice their body weight in nectar each day. Providing flowering trees and plants with an abundant nectar supply will keep hummingbirds returning frequently to your yard. Certain sap flows from trees are also an attractive sugary food source. Aim for flowers and trees with ample nectar to maintain their energy needs.
Appropriate Growing Zones
Consider the growing zone you live in when selecting trees that will attract hummingbirds. Hummingbird species and migration patterns vary across different regions in North America. Choose native flowers and trees suited for your plant hardiness zone to provide food sources at the right times of year. For example, in southern zones, blooms through winter and early spring will support hummingbirds during migration and breeding seasons. Check when hummingbirds arrive and breed in your area, then select suitable trees.
Best Trees for Attracting Hummingbirds
Many types of trees offer the features hummingbirds find attractive. Here are some of the top trees known to draw in hummingbirds:
Mimosa
Mimosa trees have fern-like leaves and showy, pink powder puff blooms. Their flowers provide copious nectar and bloom throughout the summer. Mimosa trees grow well in zones 6-9. Plant them where you can enjoy viewing their flowers and hummingbird visitors.
Trumpet Vine
Trumpet vine boasts long, tubular orange-red blooms shaped perfectly for hummingbird beaks and tongues. Hummingbirds flock to their nectar-rich flowers. Trumpet vines thrive in zones 4-9. They can grow quite large and spread rapidly, so site them carefully.
Tulip Poplar
Tulip poplar is a towering tree that produces tulip-shaped flowers with ample nectar. Their blooms range from yellow to orange with a purple band. Tulip poplars grow well in zones 5-9. Plant them where their height won’t become an issue, as they can reach over 100 feet tall.
Desert Willow
Desert willow is ideal for dry, hot climates. Their trumpet-shaped blooms come in shades of red, pink, white, or purple. Desert willows bloom all summer and require little water once established. They grow in zones 7-11. The desert willow attracts orioles in addition to hummingbirds.
Cape Honeysuckle
This exotic vine blooms abundantly in zones 9-11 with tubular orange and red flowers. Cape honeysuckle thrives with moderate watering needs. It makes a lovely screening vine in warm winter climates. The colorful flowers provide an excellent nectar source from spring to fall.
Royal Poinciana
Royal poinciana is a dramatic, wide-spreading tropical tree with feathery leaves. From spring through summer they produce clusters of bright red blooms. Royal poinciana grows in zones 10-11 and attracts hummingbirds with their plentiful nectar. Plant them where you can enjoy their striking flowers and vibrant colors.
| Tree | Growing Zones | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Mimosa | 6-9 | Showy pink blooms, fern-like leaves |
| Trumpet Vine | 4-9 | Tubular orange-red blooms |
| Tulip Poplar | 5-9 | Abundant tulip-shaped flowers |
| Desert Willow | 7-11 | Trumpet blooms, drought tolerant |
| Cape Honeysuckle | 9-11 | Orange and red tubular blooms |
| Royal Poinciana | 10-11 | Clusters of bright red blooms |
Planting and Caring for Hummingbird Trees
Getting your new hummingbird trees off to a strong start will maximize their growth, health, and blooms. Follow these tips for successful planting and care:
Select Healthy Trees
Inspect new trees before purchasing and avoid any with damage, disease, or signs of poor health. Check for sturdy branching, intact buds and bark. Healthy roots should fill the container without being overgrown.
Prepare the Planting Site
Dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball and 6-12 inches deeper. Amend the soil with compost or fertilizer if needed. Proper drainage is key, so improve water retention in sandy soils or add organic material to clay.
Plant at the Proper Depth
Place the tree in the hole so the first woody root is level with the ground. The graft union on grafted trees should be 2-3 inches above ground. Refill the hole with native soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.
Use Support Systems
Stake large trees for 1-2 years until roots establish. Tie the trunk loosely to allow some movement which builds strength. Use plastic guards to protect young trees from animal damage. Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture.
Provide Consistent Watering
Water young trees every 7-10 days during dry periods, using about 10 gallons per inch of trunk diameter. Increase frequency for sandy soils. As trees establish deeper roots, taper off frequent watering.
Offer Seasonal Care
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Prune only when necessary to remove damaged branches. Protect trees from winter wind or sunscald. Monitor for pests and treat promptly when found.
Attracting and Feeding Hummingbirds
In addition to providing nectar-rich trees, you can further entice hummingbirds by offering supplemental feeding and creating an appealing environment. Here are some tips:
Set Up Feeders
Hang nectar feeders in sunny spots near trees and shrubs that provide cover. Use a prepared nectar mix or make your own using 1 part white sugar to 4 parts water. Change the nectar every 2-3 days to prevent spoilage. Clean feeders thoroughly before refilling.
Provide Water Sources
Hummingbirds will use water features like dripping fountains or misters for drinking and bathing. Place them near feeders and perches. Ensure the water is clean and Change it frequently to avoid disease.
Offer Fruit
In addition to nectar, hummingbirds eat soft fruit and tree sap. Skewer halved oranges, grapes, bananas or melon on branches or hang in mesh bags. Keep fruit fresh by changing daily. You can also drill sap wells into mature trees.
Grow Native Plants
Landscape with native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees suited for your climate. Native plants provide essential food sources and nesting habitats for hummingbirds. They will attract more birds than exotic varieties.
Avoid Pesticides
Many common pesticides are toxic to hummingbirds. Use organic gardening methods or minimize chemical use. If needed, apply chemicals sparingly and only on calm days. This will help protect hummingbirds and their food sources.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds bring joy with their beauty and fascinating behaviors. By landscaping with the right trees and flowers, you can entice these tiny birds to become frequent visitors. Offer tubular blooms, red flowers, ample nectar supply, and plants suited for your growing zone. Proper planting, care, feeding, and gardening practices will create a welcoming haven. With careful choices, you’ll be rewarded with a yard buzzing with the sights and sounds of hummingbirds through the seasons. When you see these energetic birds flocking to feed and rest in your trees, you’ll know your plant selections were a success. The fluttering wings and flashes of color are a treat for any nature lover.
