Hummingbirds are attracted to flowers with bright colors, little to no scent, and tubular shapes that allow them to access the nectar with their long beaks. Zinnias are a popular flowering plant that meets these criteria, making them an excellent choice for gardens aimed at attracting hummingbirds.
Why are zinnias good for hummingbirds?
There are a few key reasons why zinnias are such a good match for hummingbirds:
- Bright colors – Zinnias come in a wide range of bright, vivid colors like red, orange, pink, yellow, and purple which appeal to hummingbirds’ visual senses.
- Tubular shape – The tubular or globe shape of zinnia flowers allows hummingbirds to easily insert their long beaks and tongues into the blooms to reach the nectar.
- Nectar-rich – Zinnias produce abundant nectar which fuels hummingbirds’ rapid metabolism and provides needed energy.
- Continuous bloomers – Zinnias bloom continuously throughout the summer and fall, providing a constant food source for hummingbirds.
- Compact shape – Many zinnia varieties have compact, dense flower shapes which makes it easy for hummingbirds to move between blooms.
In addition to their physical traits, zinnias are also easy to grow in a wide range of climates, making them accessible for most gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds. Their low maintenance and low water needs also make them a very beginner-friendly option.
Best zinnia varieties for hummingbirds
When selecting zinnia varieties to plant in your hummingbird garden, prioritize ones with bright, vivid colors in the red-orange-yellow color spectrum. Here are some top picks:
Zinnia ‘Zowie Yellow Flame’
This vibrant variety features blooms that transition from bright yellow to scarlet-red, providing a dynamic range of colors to catch hummingbirds’ attention. The flowers have a dual bloom form with flat petals around a small, pompom-like center.
Zinnia elegans ‘Scarlet Flame’
With fiery-red blossoms on compact 18-inch plants, this eye-catching variety is perfectly suited for containers on porches and patios that get frequent hummingbird traffic. The 2-3 inch blooms have overlapping petals and hold their color well in hot climates.
Zinnia ‘Profusion Red’
Part of the disease-resistant Profusion series, this zinnia produces continuous clusters of small, rich red flowers throughout the season. The 12-18 inch plants work well in borders and beds. The Profusion series also includes orange and apricot varieties.
Zinnia ‘Zahara Double Fire’
The large, fully double flowers on this zinnia look almost like little fireballs. The blooms are a blazing mix of scarlet, orange, and yellow hues up to 2 inches wide. These compact 12-15 inch plants are resistant to leaf spot diseases.
Zinnia ‘Queen Red Lime’
This bicolor variety has 3-4 inch blooms that transition from vivid red on the edges to bright lime green in the center. The unique color combo is highly attractive to hummingbirds. The 18-24 inch plants work great in borders or containers.
When and where to plant zinnias
Zinnias thrive with full sun exposure (at least 6 hours per day) and moderately fertile, well-draining soil. Here are some tips on when and where to plant them to best attract hummingbirds:
- Plant after the last frost date in spring when overnight temperatures stay above 50 F.
- Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost for transplants or sow seeds directly in the garden after last frost.
- Space plants 8-12 inches apart in beds, borders or containers. Group 3-5 plants together for impact.
- Choose a spot with daily sun exposure and protection from strong winds.
- Amend soil with compost or organic fertilizer to optimize growth and flowering.
- Water when top 1 inch of soil is dry. Provide 1-2 inches per week.
Growing and care tips
Here are some key tips to help your zinnias thrive and produce abundant flowers for hummingbirds:
- Fertilize every 2-3 weeks – Use a liquid flower fertilizer or one with a higher phosphorus content to fuel bloom production.
- Deadhead spent blooms – Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continual new blooming throughout the season.
- Provide support if needed – Some tall varieties may need staking to prevent flopping in heavy rains or wind.
- Monitor for powdery mildew – Prevent by spacing plants well and removing affected foliage promptly.
- Watch for spider mites – Hose plants down if mites become problematic in hot, dry conditions.
- Sow again in midsummer – Stagger plantings every 2-3 weeks for continuous color and prime hummingbird appeal.
Combining zinnias with other hummingbird-friendly flowers
While zinnias are an excellent choice on their own, combining them with other hummingbird favorites will create an even more appealing habitat. Here are some top companion plants to grow alongside zinnias:
- Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
- Bee balm (Monarda didyma)
- Coral bells (Heuchera)
- Impatiens
- Petunias
- Salvias
- Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans)
- Verbena
Aim for a continuous bloom sequence by combining early, mid, and late summer perennials with zinnias and other annuals. Repeat key colors like red, orange, purple, and yellow to really make your garden stand out.
Attracting hummingbirds to your zinnia garden
Here are some extra strategies to make sure your zinnias successfully attract visiting hummingbirds:
- Provide a water source like a fountain, mister, or bird bath which hummingbirds can use to bathe and drink from.
- Include perches like twigs or small garden obelisks where hummingbirds can rest in between visits to flowers.
- Avoid using pesticides which can make plants less appealing nectar sources.
- Plant zinnias near windows or seating areas so you can observe hummingbird activity up close.
- Supplement with feeders, especially during migration seasons when food needs are highest.
- Include native plants which provide supplemental habitat and food sources.
Conclusion
With their bright colors, tubular blooms, and non-stop flower production, zinnias are a surefire way to make your garden a hummingbird hot spot. Choosing varieties in vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow along with companion plants will create an ideal habitat. With a little planning and care, zinnias and hummingbirds will bring exciting life to your landscape all summer long. Now get out there and start planting some zinnias so you can enjoy one of nature’s most delightful wonders up close and personal!
