Hummingbirds are attracted to bright, tubular flowers that provide nectar. Lantanas are a popular flowering plant that attract hummingbirds. There are over 150 species of lantana, and many cultivars, that come in a variety of colors. So which types of lantana do hummingbirds prefer?
Do hummingbirds have a favorite color of lantana?
Hummingbirds are drawn to red, orange, and pink lantana flowers. These bright, warm colors attract the most hummingbirds.
Specific colors that hummingbirds are attracted to include:
Red
– Lantana camara – one of the most popular red lantana varieties. Grows in USDA zones 9-11.
– Lantana montevidensis – another bright red species, also known as trailing lantana. Grows in USDA zones 9-11.
– ‘New Gold’ – a lantana cultivar with dark green foliage and intense red flowers. Grows in zones 9-11.
Orange
– Lantana trifolia – a bushy orange species. Grows in USDA zones 8-10.
– ‘Landmark Peach Sunrise’ – an orange and yellow bicolor lantana cultivar. Grows in zones 9-11.
– ‘Bandana Orange’ – bright orange flowers on a compact plant. Grows in zones 9-11.
Pink
– Lantana involucrata – also known as wild sage, this species has light pink flowers. Native to Florida and the Gulf Coast. Grows in zones 8-11.
– ‘Pink Caprice’ – a popular pink hybrid lantana with large blooms. Grows in zones 9-11.
– ‘Lavender Trailing’ – a soft pink trailing lantana variety. Grows in zones 9-11.
Red and orange bicolors
Many lantana cultivars feature a mix of red and orange or yellow flowers. These bicolors attract hummingbirds to both color tones.
– ‘Patriot Rainbow’ – red flowers mixed with orange and yellow. Grows in zones 9-11.
– ‘Rosie Romance’ – orange blooms with red centers. Grows in zones 9-11.
– ‘Spreading Sunset’ – red flowers with yellow centers. Grows in zones 9-11.
What other factors attract hummingbirds to lantana?
In addition to flower color, there are other characteristics of lantanas that appeal to hummingbirds:
Flower shape
Lantana flowers have a tubular shape perfect for hummingbird beaks and tongues. The nectar is easily accessed at the base of each small, trumpet-like bloom.
Continuous blooming
Most lantana varieties bloom continuously from spring through fall. This provides a constant nectar source for visiting hummingbirds. Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers.
Nectar production
Lantanas produce abundant nectar to fuel hummingbirds’ high metabolisms. The plants continue making nectar even in dry, hot conditions.
Compact size
Container gardening has made compact lantana varieties popular. Dwarf and trailing types fit nicely into hanging baskets and potted arrangements where hummingbirds can easily spot the flowers.
Lantana Variety | Height | Spread | Flower Color |
---|---|---|---|
Luscious Citrus Blend | 10-12 inches | 18-24 inches | Orange, yellow, pink |
Radiation | 12-18 inches | 12-24 inches | Red, orange, yellow |
Lucky Flame | 14-16 inches | 12-14 inches | Red, gold, orange |
Where to plant lantana for hummingbirds
Lantanas grow best in full sun exposure. Choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They tolerate heat, humidity, and afternoon shade.
Good placement areas to attract hummingbirds include:
– Flower beds
– Container gardens – patios, porches, hanging baskets
– Around trees and shrubs
– Along fences or property edges
– Near windows – makes it easy to watch visiting hummingbirds
Space lantana plants 1-3 feet apart depending on their expected mature size. Give them room to grow and spread.
Are tropical or hardy lantana varieties better?
Tropical lantana varieties are best suited for year-round hummingbird gardens in USDA zones 9-11. These tender perennials thrive in warm climates.
Hardy lantana varieties can overwinter in cooler zones 7-8, offering seasonal interest for hummingbirds. Grow them in containers that can be moved indoors over winter.
For zones 3-6, lantanas are grown as annuals during the frost-free season. Plant them after the last spring frost once overnight temperatures stay above 50°F.
Recommended tropical lantana varieties
– Lantana camara
– Lantana montevidensis
– ‘New Gold’
– ‘Bandana Orange’
Recommended hardy lantana varieties
– Lantana × hybrida ‘Chapel Hill Yellow’
– Lantana × hybrida ‘Chapel Hill Gold’
– Lantana horrida
– Lantana × hybrida ‘New Gold’
Caring for lantanas
Lantanas are relatively easy care plants once established. Here are some tips for growing healthy lantana that will attract hummingbirds:
Sun and soil
– Plant in full sun
– Prefer loose, well-drained soil
– Avoid wet, soggy soil
– Mulch to retain moisture
Watering
– Keep soil moderately moist, allow drying between waterings
– Require 1-2 inches of water per week
– Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to avoid wet foliage
Fertilizer
– Apply slow-release fertilizer at planting
– Liquid feed every 2-3 weeks during growing season
– Avoid high-nitrogen formulas
Pruning
– Prune lightly in spring to shape
– Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms
– Cut back any frost damage on hardy varieties
Overwintering
– Bring container plants indoors before first frost
– Store dormant plants in cool, dark space
– Limit watering over winter
– Transplant back outside after danger of frost
Problems
– Powdery mildew – improve air circulation, don’t over-fertilize
– Root rot – avoid overwatering
– Aphids, whiteflies – use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap
– Deer browsing – protect with fencing if needed
Companion plants for lantana
Grow lantana with other hummingbird-friendly flowers to provide diverse nectar sources. Good companion plants include:
Perennials
– Bee balm
– Cardinal flower
– Columbine
– Coral honeysuckle
– Penstemon
– Pineapple sage
– Trumpet vine
Annuals
– Petunias
– Flowering tobacco
– Cosmos
– Zinnias
– Four o’clocks
– Nasturtiums
Shrubs and vines
– Butterfly bush
– Lilac
– Weigela
– Wisteria
– Clematis
– Trumpet creeper
Group shorter flowers near the front of beds with taller plants toward the back. Repeat colors and flower shapes to create a cohesive display.
FAQs
Should I deadhead my lantanas?
Yes, deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering on lantanas. Use scissors or pruning shears to remove faded flowers just below the flower head.
How fast do lantanas grow?
Lantanas are fast growers. Most varieties reach their full mature size of 1-4 feet tall and wide within one growing season. Trailing types spread rapidly along the ground. Provide ample space for growth when planning your garden.
Are lantanas perennials?
In tropical climates, lantanas behave as perennials and regrow each year. Hardy varieties can survive winters in zones 7-8. Elsewhere they are grown as annuals and replaced each season.
Do lantanas spread aggressively?
Some lantana species can be invasive in warm climates. However, most popular hybrids and cultivars are sterile so do not self-seed. Trailing types spread along the ground but are easy to control by pruning.
Are lantanas toxic to pets or humans?
Lantanas are considered mildly toxic if ingested. The unripe green berries can cause digestive upset. Handle plants with care and wash hands after gardening. Keep pets and children away from consumption.
Conclusion
With their bright, tubular flowers in colors that specially attract hummingbirds, lantanas are a foolproof addition to gardens that want to invite these special pollinators. Red, orange, pink, and multicolored blooms on compact, non-stop blooming plants give hummers what they need to thrive. Pair lantanas with other nectar-rich flowers for a beautiful, wildlife-friendly garden that brings joy from spring through fall. With a little basic care, lantanas deliver outsized rewards to both gardeners and hummingbirds who grace them with visits.