Hummingbirds are attracted to bright, tubular flowers that provide nectar. Zinnias are a popular flowering plant that attract many hummingbirds. When choosing zinnias for your garden to attract hummingbirds, there are certain types and colors that are preferred by these tiny birds. In this article, we will explore the different types of zinnias, their traits, and which ones hummingbirds tend to be most attracted to.
Why Are Hummingbirds Attracted to Zinnias?
Hummingbirds are drawn to zinnias for a few key reasons:
- Bright colors – Hummingbirds see in full color spectrum, unlike humans, and are attracted to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows which stand out to them.
- Tubular shape – The trumpet or funnel shape makes it easy for hummingbirds to access the nectar inside.
- Nectar – Zinnias produce ample nectar which provides the high-energy food source hummingbirds need.
- Bloom time – Zinnias typically bloom throughout the summer and fall which coincides with periods of high energy needs for hummingbirds.
Zinnias check all the boxes in terms of what attracts hummingbirds to stop by and feed. Planting zinnias is an easy way to invite more hummingbird activity into your garden.
Types of Zinnias
There are over 20 species of zinnias that come in a wide array of colors, sizes, and forms. Some of the most common garden zinnia varieties include:
Common Garden Zinnias
| Zinnia Type | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Dahlia Flowered | Large, double blooms resembling dahlias. Heights up to 36″. |
| California Giant | Extra large single blooms on long stems. Grows 18-40″ tall. |
| Benary’s Giant | Fully double flowers up to 6″ across. 18-30″ height. |
| Sun Gold | Vibrant golden orange color on mounded plants up to 24″ tall. |
| Scarlet Flame | Bright red semi-double 2-4″ blooms on compact 12-15″ plants. |
| Zowie Yellow Flame | Bicolor blooms in red and yellow. Grows to 20-24″ tall. |
This table highlights some of the most popular garden zinnia varieties and their traits. When choosing zinnias to attract hummingbirds, prioritize types with bright, bold colors in red, orange, yellow and combinations. Focus on varieties that produce abundant single and semi-double flower forms rather than fully double. And plant taller types towards the back of beds and borders for best visibility.
Zinnia Colors for Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds have excellent color vision and they are most attracted to flowers in shades of:
- Red
- Orange
- Yellow
- Purple
- Pink
These warm, vivid tones stand out best to the eyes of hummingbirds. When shopping for zinnia seeds or plants, look for selections in these shade ranges. Bicolors and multicolors that incorporate several of these hues together are especially eye-catching.
While bright white zinnias are pretty, they don’t attract hummingbirds as well. Pale pastel varieties also tend to be less preferred. Focus on rich, saturated shades that provide a neon beacon for hummingbirds from a distance.
Best Zinnias to Attract Hummingbirds
Based on their characteristics and color, the following zinnia varieties are top choices for luring more hummingbirds to your garden:
Single Flower Zinnias
| Variety | Color | Height |
|---|---|---|
| California Giant Mix | Range of bright colors | 18-40″ |
| Oklahoma Mix | Red, orange, yellow | 24-36″ |
| Sun Gold | Golden orange | Up to 24″ |
Single flower zinnias have exposed reproductive parts which makes it easy for hummingbirds to access nectar. The bright mix of colors and large flowers of these varieties grab a hummingbird’s attention from distances. Plant en masse for best effect.
Semi and Duplex Double Zinnias
| Variety | Color | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Zowie Yellow Flame | Red and yellow bicolor | 20-24″ |
| Scarlet Flame | Bright red | 12-15″ |
| Fireworks Mix | Range of red, orange, yellow | 24-30″ |
These zinnias have semi and lightly ruffled double blooms that give hummingbirds access while still having beautiful filled out flower forms. The bright reds, oranges, and yellows are irresistible. Use as mid-border accents around taller single zinnias.
Trailing or Container Zinnias
| Variety | Color | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Zahara Starlight Rose | Deep rose | 12-16″ |
| Zahara Sunburst | Yellow and red | 10-12″ |
| Magellan Coral | Coral orange | 12-18″ |
These compact, mounded zinnias work perfectly in containers on patios and decks where hummingbirds can hover right up close. Bright warm colors on shorter varieties keep nectar conveniently within reach. Plant zinnia combinations in hanging baskets for aerial feeding stations.
When and Where to Plant Zinnias
Location
Hummingbirds prefer open, sunny spots where they can perch and take off with ease. Choose locations for your zinnias where they will get at least 6 hours of direct sun daily. Avoid planting right up against walls, fences or shrubs with limited visibility.
Place zinnias in and around borders, beds, and containers near seating areas, decks, or porches where you can observe hummingbird activity. Try massing them together for high impact rather than spacing singly.
Soil and Site
Zinnias thrive in well-drained, fertile soil. Incorporate compost or aged manure before planting to enrich and improve moisture retention. Select a site that drains well after rain or irrigation to prevent root rot.
Full sun exposure is critical, especially in cooler climates to spur lush, robust growth. Hot and dry conditions are tolerated once established thanks to their Mexican heritage. Shelter from strong winds can help prevent damage to plants and flowers.
Timing
Zinnias are typically grown as annuals in zones 3-9. In zones 9-11 they may persist as short lived perennials. Optimal timing includes:
- Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date
- Transplant seedlings after danger of frost has passed
- Begin harvesting flowers mid to late summer and continue until hard frost
- For warm winter areas, plant fall crops for winter color
Time plantings so that peak bloom coincides with hummingbird activity in your region. Stagger plantings every 2-3 weeks to ensure continuous flowers from mid-summer through early fall.
Caring for Hummingbird Zinnias
Water and Feed
Consistent moisture is key, especially while plants are establishing. Water at soil level instead of overhead to reduce disease. Add mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds.
Fertilize monthly with a water soluble, balanced flower fertilizer to fuel steady blooming. Prune spent blooms regularly to promote new growth. Deadhead to keep plants looking tidy and prevent seed production.
Pests and Problems
Zinnias are relatively trouble-free, but may encounter:
- Powdery mildew – Avoid wetting foliage. Improve air circulation.
- Aphids – Use insecticidal soap or neem oil treatment.
- Japanese beetles – Hand pick early mornings. Use row covers.
- Root and stem rot – Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Practice crop rotation yearly to prevent disease buildup. Scout for problems early and treat promptly to keep plants vigorous.
Overwintering
Zinnias are tender annuals that succumb to frost and freeze damage. In zones 3-9, collect and save seeds to replant the following year. Take cuttings in late summer to propagate tender perennial types like trailing lantanas indoors over winter.
In zones 9-11, mulch existing plants to help root systems survive winter. Cut back by half and cover with loose mulch after several hard frosts. Prune back severely in early spring to renew growth.
Enjoying Hummingbirds and Zinnias
Explore a Range of Colors and Types
Try different zinnia varieties each year to find out which your local hummingbirds seem most attracted to. Mix it up with new colors, forms, and arrangements. Observe hummingbird habits and trends in your garden to determine preferences.
Provide Other Hummingbird Plants
Supplement your zinnias with other flowers that hummingbirds love like petunias, fuchsias, salvias, and nasturtiums. Have successive waves of bloom from spring through fall. Include shrubs and vines with tubular flowers to invite hummingbirds to nest as well.
Add Feeders and Water Features
Set up hummingbird feeders in visible areas near your zinnias to provide supplemental nectar. Change the sugar water every few days to avoid spoilage. Add a birdbath, mister, or fountain for drinking and bathing. Site both near flowers and perches.
Allow Flowers to Go to Seed
Leave the last zinnias of summer untouched to mature and go to seed. The dried seed heads provide an important late season food source hummingbirds rely on to prepare for migration.
Conclusion
With their bright colors and tubular blooms, zinnias are magnets for attracting hummingbirds to gardens. Choosing the types of zinnias with single to semi-double flowers in bold reds, oranges, yellows, and combinations are sure to entice hummingbirds to stop by and sip nectar. Planting zinnias in masses, containers, and baskets located in open, sunny sites will optimize visits from these energetic pollinators. By providing a sequence of flowering from summer to fall, zinnias help ensure hummingbirds find the food they need during busy seasons. Any garden can easily be made more hummingbird friendly simply by adding a diverse patch of beautiful, nectar-rich zinnias. The joy of watching hummingbirds hover and feed on zinnia blooms they favor is a special reward for gardeners.
