If you’re a nature lover in Wyoming, there’s a good chance you’ve been lucky enough to spot the vibrant and energetic hummingbirds that grace the area. But did you know that you can actually attract these delightful creatures to your own backyard? In this article, you’ll find a curated list of 14 flowers that are known to lure hummingbirds with their abundance of nectar. From the stunning red petals of Bee Balm and Larkspur to the delicate blooms of Columbine and Lupine, each flower is described in detail, including information on growing conditions, bloom time, and light requirements. Plus, if you’re lucky, you may even attract butterflies and bees to your garden as well! So get ready to welcome these enchanting visitors by planting these hummingbird-approved flowers in your Wyoming oasis.
Introduction
Hummingbirds are enchanting creatures known for their vibrant colors and unique flying abilities. These tiny birds bring joy and beauty to any garden they visit. If you live in Wyoming and want to attract these delightful creatures to your yard, planting flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds is a great idea. In this article, we will explore 14 flowers that are known to attract hummingbirds in Wyoming. From Bee Balm to Flowering Tobacco, we will provide you with all the information you need to create a hummingbird haven right in your backyard.
Ideal Traits of Hummingbird Flowers
Before diving into the specific types of flowers that attract hummingbirds, let’s first discuss the ideal traits that these hummingbird-friendly flowers possess:
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Lots of Nectar: Hummingbirds have a high metabolism and need to constantly refuel. Flowers that produce a generous amount of nectar are highly attractive to these birds.
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Tubular Shape: Hummingbirds have a long, slender bill that is perfectly suited for sipping nectar from tubular flowers. The shape of the flower helps to keep out other pollinators, ensuring that the nectar is reserved for the hummingbirds.
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Red Color: Hummingbirds are particularly drawn to the color red. Flowers with vibrant red blooms act as a beacon, attracting these tiny birds from afar.
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Attractiveness to Butterflies and Bees: While our main focus is attracting hummingbirds, it’s worth noting that many of the flowers that attract hummingbirds are also loved by butterflies and bees. Creating a diverse and pollinator-friendly garden is beneficial for overall ecosystem health.
1. Bee Balm
Bee Balm, scientifically known as Monarda, is a popular choice for attracting hummingbirds in Wyoming. Known for its striking red blooms, Bee Balm is a favorite of both humans and hummingbirds alike. Here are some key details about this beautiful flower:
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Growing Information: Bee Balm thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun or partial shade. It grows best in moist conditions and requires regular watering.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Bee Balm is well adapted to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9.
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Bloom Time: Bee Balm blooms from early summer to fall, providing a long-lasting source of nectar for hummingbirds.
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Light Requirements: Bee Balm prefers full sun to partial shade, so make sure to provide it with adequate sunlight for optimal growth.
2. Sage
Sage, scientifically known as Salvia, is not only a versatile herb but also a fantastic choice for attracting hummingbirds. With its vibrant red flowers, Sage is a showstopper in any garden. Here’s what you need to know about growing Sage:
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Growing Information: Sage prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require much water once established.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Sage is well-suited to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.
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Bloom Time: Sage blooms from late spring to early summer, providing a burst of color when hummingbirds are most active.
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Light Requirements: Sage thrives in full sun conditions, so make sure to plant it in a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
3. Lupine
Lupine, scientifically known as Lupinus, is a striking flower known for its tall spikes of vibrant blooms. This perennial plant is a favorite of hummingbirds and adds a touch of elegance to any garden. Here’s what you need to know about growing Lupine:
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Growing Information: Lupine thrives in well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Lupine is well-adapted to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8.
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Bloom Time: Lupine blooms from late spring to early summer, attracting hummingbirds during their most active season.
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Light Requirements: Lupine prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure to provide it with a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
4. Columbine
Columbine, scientifically known as Aquilegia, is a delicate and breathtaking flower that is a magnet for hummingbirds. Its unique shape and vibrant colors make it a standout in any garden. Here’s what you need to know about growing Columbine:
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Growing Information: Columbine thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Columbine is well-suited to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-8.
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Bloom Time: Columbine blooms from late spring to early summer, attracting hummingbirds with its graceful petals.
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Light Requirements: Columbine can grow in a variety of light conditions, but it prefers partial shade. Consider planting it in a location that receives a mix of sun and shade throughout the day.
5. Fireweed
Fireweed, scientifically known as Chamerion angustifolium, is a native wildflower that is not only beautiful but also a favorite of hummingbirds. Its tall spikes of vibrant magenta blooms add a pop of color to any garden. Here’s what you need to know about growing Fireweed:
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Growing Information: Fireweed thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate a variety of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Fireweed is well-adapted to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 2-8.
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Bloom Time: Fireweed blooms from mid-summer to early fall, providing a late-season source of nectar for hummingbirds.
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Light Requirements: Fireweed can grow in a range of light conditions, but it thrives in full sun. Plant it in a sunny location to ensure optimal growth and blooming.
6. Larkspur
Larkspur, scientifically known as Delphinium, is a stunning flower that is beloved by hummingbirds. With its tall stalks adorned with colorful blooms, Larkspur is sure to attract these tiny birds to your garden. Here’s what you need to know about growing Larkspur:
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Growing Information: Larkspur prefers well-drained soil and full sun. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Larkspur is well-suited to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-7.
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Bloom Time: Larkspur blooms from late spring to early summer, providing a burst of color during the prime hummingbird season.
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Light Requirements: Larkspur thrives in full sun conditions. Make sure to provide it with a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
14. Flowering Tobacco
Flowering Tobacco, scientifically known as Nicotiana, is a fragrant flower that is highly attractive to hummingbirds. With its trumpet-shaped blooms and delightful scent, Flowering Tobacco is a must-have in any hummingbird garden. Here’s what you need to know about growing Flowering Tobacco:
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Growing Information: Flowering Tobacco thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.
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USDA Hardiness Zone: Flowering Tobacco is well-suited to Wyoming’s climate and can be grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9.
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Bloom Time: Flowering Tobacco blooms from summer to fall, providing a late-season source of nectar for hummingbirds.
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Light Requirements: Flowering Tobacco can grow in a variety of light conditions but prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a spot that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
By planting any of these 14 flowers in your garden, you can create a haven for hummingbirds in Wyoming. With their vibrant colors and nectar-filled blossoms, these flowers are sure to attract these delightful birds to your yard. So get your gardening gloves on, grab some seeds or potted plants, and start creating a hummingbird paradise that will bring joy and beauty to your outdoor space. Happy gardening!