Top 15 Colorful Hummingbird Flowers to Grow

In the world of gardening, few sights are as enchanting as the iridescent flutter of a hummingbird darting among vibrant blooms. These tiny avian wonders are not just pollinators; they’re aerial acrobats performing a delicate dance in search of nectar. For garden enthusiasts eager to transform their outdoor spaces into bustling oases of color and life, selecting the right flora is key. 

Our guide on the Top 15 Colorful Hummingbird Flowers to Grow, where we unveil a spectrum of blossoms designed to attract these dazzling creatures. Creating a hummingbird haven begins with understanding what draws these feathered jewels: vibrant hues, tubular shapes, and abundant nectar.

15 Colorful Hummingbird Flowers to Grow

• Cardinal Flower
• Bee Balm
• Penstemon
• Hosta
• Catmint
• Agastache
• Eastern Red Columbine
• Trumpet Honeysuckle
• Salvia
• Zinnia
• Flowering Tobacco
• Red Hot Poker
• Delphinium
• Trumpet Vine
• Coral Bells

Cardinal Flower

• Lobelia cardinalis, Zones 2 to 9
• Size: 3 to 4 feet tall, 1 to 2 feet wide

Cardinal flowers, known scientifically as Lobelia cardinalis, are a striking addition to any garden, drawing in hummingbirds with their vibrant red blossoms. These perennials not only add visual interest but also support local pollinator populations by providing rich nectar sources. 

Why we love it:  The Cardinal Flower stands out as one of the most enchanting choices among colorful hummingbird flowers to grow, captivating garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Its vivid red blossoms are more than just eye-catching; they serve as a beacon for hummingbirds, drawing these mesmerizing creatures with their irresistible nectar. 

Bee Balm

• Monarda species, Zones 4 to 9
• Size: 1 to 4 feet tall and wide

Bee balm, known for its vibrant colors and ability to attract hummingbirds, is a must-have in any garden seeking a lively touch of ecology. These flowers come in an impressive spectrum of hues ranging from deep reds and purples to radiant pinks and whites each pulling double duty by serving as visual focal points and essential nectar sources. 

Why we love it: Bee Balm, a vibrant addition to any garden, captivates not only the human eye but also invites hummingbirds with its stunning array of colors. These colorful hummingbird flowers are a spectacle; their fiery reds, soft pinks, and gentle lavenders add a touch of wilderness to suburban landscapes. Growing Bee Balm becomes more than just gardening it’s an invitation for nature to dance in your backyard. The blooms create a dynamic display that resonates with life, offering an effortless allure that brightens every corner they touch.

Penstemon

• Penstemon species, Zones 3 to 9
• Size: 1 to 4 feet tall

Penstemons, often hailed as the jewels of the garden, offer a kaleidoscope of colors that attract not only gardeners but also nature’s most enchanting pollinators: hummingbirds. These vivid blooms thrive in a variety of climates and conditions, making them an essential addition for any garden enthusiast eager to foster biodiversity within their landscape. 

Why we love it: Penstemon, often celebrated as a vibrant addition to any garden, boasts colorful hummingbird-attracting flowers that captivate both gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike. These blooms are not only visually striking but also play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems by acting as a vital nectar source for hummingbirds. Their tubular shapes and vivid hues ranging from deep reds to serene purples are specially adapted for these avian pollinators, making Penstemon an essential choice for those looking to enhance biodiversity in their gardens.

Hosta

• Hosta species, Zones 3 to 9
• Size: 6 to 30 inches

Hosta plants, typically known for their lush greenery and shade-loving habits, offer more than just foliage; they can be a surprising source of vibrant hummingbird attraction. While the flowers of hostas are often overlooked compared to the leaves, these delicate blooms present an unseen charm in any garden landscape. 

Why we love it: The allure of Hosta colorful hummingbird flowers lies in their vibrant appeal and effortless charm, captivating gardeners and nature lovers alike. These flowers enhance any garden with their vivid hues, ranging from rich purples to radiant yellows, providing a visual feast that draws not only humans but also hummingbirds seeking both nectar and shelter. As these tiny avian acrobats hover around them, the garden transforms into a lively display of color and life, making the Hosta an indispensable addition for those looking to create a lively outdoor space.

Catmint

• Nepeta species, Zones 3 to 9
• Size: 1 to 3 feet tall, often wider than it is tall

The allure of catmint, a garden powerhouse renowned for its vibrant blooms that delight not only gardening enthusiasts but also a plethora of hummingbirds. These striking flowers, with their rich lavender-blue hues, create a visual and sensory feast that can transform any outdoor space into an avian wonderland. Known scientifically as Nepeta , catmint offers more than just beauty; its soft leaves release a minty fragrance when brushed against, adding another layer of attraction for both humans and wildlife alike.

Why we love it: Catmint colorful hummingbird flowers, with their striking blues and purples, create a vibrant tapestry in any garden. These floral gems are not only visually stunning but also play an essential role in supporting the local ecosystem. By attracting hummingbirds, they facilitate pollination and bring dynamic life to your outdoor spaces. The movement and vibrant colors of these tiny birds offer a lively spectacle that can turn any backyard into a nature lover’s paradise.

Agastache

• Agastache species, Zones 4 to 9
• Size: 1 to 5 feet tall

Agastache, often celebrated as colorful hummingbird flowers to grow, presents a vibrant palette for any garden enthusiast. Known for their tall spikes adorned with tubular blooms, these hardy perennials not only attract hummingbirds like magnets but also serve as a delightful addition to pollinator gardens. Their aromatic foliage provides an enchanting backdrop, emitting scents reminiscent of mint or even licorice depending on the variety. 

Why we love it:  Catmint, or Nepeta, transforms any garden into a vibrant haven, particularly attracting hummingbirds with its mesmerizing flowers. These hardy perennials not only boast stunning spikes of blue and purple blooms but also exude a delightful aroma that both pollinators and gardeners adore.

Eastern Red Columbine

• Aquilegia canadensis, Zones 3 to 8
• Size: 1 to 3 feet tall, 1 foot wide

Eastern Red Columbine, with its striking red and yellow blooms, serves as a magnet for hummingbirds and other pollinators. This perennial not only enhances garden aesthetics but also promotes biodiversity. By planting these vibrant flowers in your garden, you create a dynamic ecosystem that thrives on the interactions between plants and wildlife. 

Why we love it: The Eastern Red Columbine, with its striking red and yellow blossoms, is more than just a visual delight; it’s an ecosystem magnet. One of the primary reasons we adore these flowers is their ability to attract hummingbirds, making your garden come alive with vibrant activity. These charming birds are not only captivating to watch but also play a crucial role in pollination, ensuring that your garden flourishes year after year. The tubular shape of the columbine’s petals perfectly accommodates their long beaks, allowing for an enchanting relationship between plant and pollinator.

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Trumpet Honeysuckle

• Lonicera sempervirens, Zones 4 to 10
• Size: 10- to 20-foot vine

Trumpet honeysuckle, renowned for its striking tubular blooms, is a magnet for hummingbirds and pollinators alike. These colorful flowers emerge in vibrant hues ranging from fiery orange to deep crimson, providing not only an eye-catching display but also an essential nectar source for our feathered friends. 

Why we love it: Trumpet honeysuckle is a beloved choice for gardens, especially for those who wish to attract vibrant hummingbirds. These climbing vines produce trumpet-shaped blossoms in shades of orange, yellow, and red that not only brighten up any landscape but also serve as a vital nectar source for these tiny aviators. Their sweet scent and vivid colors create a stunning visual appeal while forging an essential connection between flora and fauna.

Salvia

• Salvia species, annual to perennial Zones 3 to 10
• Size: 1 to 6 feet tall

Salvia, known as the colorful hummingbird flowers to grow, offers more than just radiant blooms; it acts as a vibrant magnet for pollinators. With their tubular shapes and dazzling colors ranging from fiery reds to delicate purples, these plants not only enhance the aesthetic of any garden but also encourage the bustling presence of hummingbirds. 

Why we love it: The most compelling reason to embrace Salvia as a garden staple is its ability to attract hummingbirds, those enchanting little avian visitors that bring a delightful energy to any outdoor space. The vibrant colors of Salvia’s blossoms ranging from bold reds and purples to sunny yellows serve not only as stunning visual focal points but also function as beacons for these nectar-loving birds. 

Zinnia

• Zinnia elegans, annual
• Size: 6 to 48 inches tall

Zinnias are not just vibrant additions to any garden; they serve as a magnet for hummingbirds, thanks to their bright colors and tubular flowers. These blooms come in an array of shades—ranging from bold reds and yellows to soft pastels—that can create a visual feast while attracting our feathered friends. By selecting varieties like the ‘Zinnia elegans’, you’ll find large, open flower heads ideal for nectar-seeking hummingbirds. These resilient annuals thrive in sunny spots, making them perfect for garden beds or window boxes.

Why we love it: Zinnia colorful hummingbird flowers are truly a gardener’s delight, not just for their vibrant hues but also for their unique role in supporting local wildlife. These dazzling blooms attract more than just the eye; they are a beacon for hummingbirds and various pollinators, playing a crucial part in the ecosystem. 

Flowering Tobacco

• Nicotiana spp., annual

Flowering tobacco, or Nicotiana, is an underappreciated gem for any avid gardener looking to attract hummingbirds. With its vibrant tubular flowers in shades of pink, red, and white, this plant not only brings a splash of color to your garden but also serves as a vital nectar source for these enchanting pollinators. Unlike typical garden perennials that may require intensive care, flowering tobacco thrives in both sun and partial shade, making it versatile enough for various landscape designs.

Bonus tip: If you’re looking to attract mesmerizing hummingbirds to your garden, consider planting flowering tobacco, specifically varieties like Nicotiana alata or Nicotiana.langsdorffii. These plants not only boast stunning tubular flowers in a spectrum of colors, including vibrant pinks and whites, but they also release a sweet fragrance at twilight, making them irresistible to nocturnal pollinators.

Red Hot Poker

• Kniphofia, Zones 5 to 9

Red Hot Poker, scientifically known as Kniphofia, are a spectacular choice for gardeners eager to attract hummingbirds and create a vibrant landscape. These striking flowers feature tall spikes adorned with tubular blooms that transition from fiery red to bright orange and yellow, mirroring the flickering wings of their avian visitors. Not only are they visually arresting, but they also thrive in well-draining soil and sunny conditions, making them perfect for low-maintenance gardens or those looking to add a splash of color without extensive upkeep.

Bonus tip: Red Hot Poker, also known as Kniphofia, is a strikingly vibrant addition to any garden, renowned for its ability to attract hummingbirds. These unique plants boast fiery spikes of tubular flowers in eye-catching shades of red, orange, and yellow that can truly enliven your outdoor space. Ideally suited for sunny spots with well-drained soil, Red Hot Poker thrives during the summer months and requires minimal maintenance once established. 

Delphinium

• Delphinium, Zones 3 to 7

Delphiniums, with their towering spires of vivid blue, purple, and white blooms, are more than just a stunning addition to any garden; they are also a magnet for hummingbirds. The elongated flowers provide an ideal landing platform for these tiny pollinators while offering generous nectar supplies. When planted in clusters, delphiniums create vibrant focal points that attract not only hummingbirds but also butterflies and bees—transforming your garden into a lively ecosystem.

Bonus tip: Red Hot Poker, also known as Kniphofia, is a strikingly vibrant addition to any garden, renowned for its ability to attract hummingbirds. These unique plants boast fiery spikes of tubular flowers in eye-catching shades of red, orange, and yellow that can truly enliven your outdoor space. Ideally suited for sunny spots with well-drained soil, Red Hot Poker thrives during the summer months and requires minimal maintenance once established. 

Trumpet Vine

• Campsis radicans, Zones 4 to 9

Trumpet vine, with its vibrant tubular flowers, is a magnet for hummingbirds and an exhilarating addition to any garden. These colorful blooms come in shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning visual display that not only beautifies your landscape but also supports local wildlife. 

Bonus tip: If you’re looking to attract vibrant hummingbirds to your garden, consider planting Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans), a stunning display of nature’s artistry. These hardy vines produce tubular flowers that bloom in fiery oranges and reds, creating a visual feast that’s hard for both you and feathered friends to resist. 

Beyond their eye-catching hues, the flowers are specifically designed for hummingbird feeding; their shape allows these tiny acrobats easy access to nectar, while also providing a natural source of sustenance as they flit from blossom to blossom.

Coral Bells

• Heuchera, Zones 3 to 9

Coral Bells, also known as Heuchera, are a gardener’s dream, bringing vibrant colors and delicate blooms that attract hummingbirds in droves. These perennial beauties boast an impressive spectrum of foliage shades from deep purples to fiery reds adding visual interest year-round. 

Bonus tip: Coral Bells, or Heuchera, are a stunning addition to any garden, celebrated not just for their vibrant foliage but also for their ability to attract hummingbirds. The flowers of Coral Bells come in a variety of colors ranging from deep red and coral to soft pinks and whites—which create an enchanting display that can brighten up shady spots. 

Conclusion

Cultivating a vibrant garden with the top 15 colorful hummingbird flowers can create a stunning oasis that attracts these fascinating birds while enhancing your outdoor space. From the striking blooms of trumpet vine to the delicate petals of bee balm, each flower offers unique beauty and allure. By selecting a variety of plants that bloom at different times throughout the season, you can ensure a continuous parade of hummingbirds visiting your yard.

Consider pairing these flowers with native plants to promote local biodiversity and provide essential habitats. Start planning your garden today and enjoy the delightful spectacle of hummingbirds flitting among your flourishing blooms!

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