Maine may be known for its stunning landscapes and picturesque coastal views, but did you know that it is also home to an array of vibrant flowers that have a special appeal to hummingbirds? In this article, we will explore 18 different flowers that not only captivate with their beauty but also entice these delightful avian creatures. Whether it’s the sweet nectar, tubular-shaped petals, or the irresistible color red, these flowers have all the qualities needed to bring hummingbirds flocking to your garden. From the elegant Trumpet Honeysuckle to the majestic Mountain Laurel, each flower offers a unique allure that is sure to bring joy and wonder to any nature enthusiast in Maine. So, grab your gardening gloves, because we are about to embark on a journey of breathtaking blossoms and mesmerizing hummingbird encounters.
Trumpet Honeysuckle
Trumpet Honeysuckle is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts hummingbirds with its vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers. These flowers are filled with sweet nectar, making them irresistible to hummingbirds. The tubular shape of the flowers is perfectly designed for the long beak of the hummingbird, allowing them easy access to the nectar inside. The bright red color of the Trumpet Honeysuckle is another factor that makes it highly attractive to hummingbirds, as these tiny birds are naturally drawn to the color red.
Red Cardinal Flower
The Red Cardinal Flower is a favorite among hummingbirds due to its abundance of nectar and its striking red color. This perennial plant produces tall stalks of vibrant red flowers, resembling the feathers of a cardinal bird. The tubular shape of the flowers provides easy access to the nectar for the hummingbirds, while the bright red color acts as a beacon, guiding them towards this sweet treat. The Red Cardinal Flower is a must-have for any hummingbird enthusiast looking to attract these delightful creatures to their garden.
Bee Balm
Bee Balm is a versatile plant that not only attracts bees but also serves as a magnet for hummingbirds. This flowering herb, also known as Monarda, produces clusters of tube-shaped flowers in various shades of red, pink, purple, and white. The abundance of nectar found in these vibrant flowers makes them a favorite among hummingbirds. The tubular shape allows the hummingbirds to easily reach the nectar with their long beaks, while the colorful petals catch their attention and entice them to visit. Adding Bee Balm to your garden will ensure a steady stream of hummingbird visitors throughout the blooming season.
Sage
Sage, with its aromatic leaves and delicate flowers, is another great choice for attracting hummingbirds. While some varieties of sage produce flowers in colors such as purple, pink, or white, the red-flowered varieties are particularly appealing to hummingbirds. The tubular shape of the sage flowers combined with their rich nectar content makes them irresistible to these tiny birds. If you want to create a hummingbird haven in your garden, be sure to include some varieties of sage to provide a diverse and enticing range of nectar sources.
Rhododendron
The Rhododendron is a stunning flowering shrub that blooms in an array of vibrant colors, including shades of red, pink, and white. While all varieties of Rhododendron can attract hummingbirds, the red-flowered species are particularly alluring. The tubular-shaped flowers of the Rhododendron provide the perfect reservoirs for holding nectar, making them highly appealing to hummingbirds. Planting several Rhododendron bushes in your garden will not only create a visually stunning display but also attract these enchanting birds to your outdoor space.
Lupine
Lupine is a wildflower that produces tall spires of colorful flowers, ranging from white and pink to purple and blue. These lovely flowers have a unique shape that is quite different from the typical tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds. However, the abundance of nectar found within the Lupine flowers makes them an excellent choice for hummingbird enthusiasts. While the nectar may not be as easily accessible as in tubular flowers, hummingbirds are known for their adaptability and will eagerly visit Lupine flowers in search of the sweet reward hidden within.
Columbine
Columbine is a delicate and dainty flower that comes in a variety of colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, blue, and white. The unique shape of the Columbine flower with its spurred petals makes it an enticing choice for hummingbirds. While the nectar reservoir is not as extensive as in some other flowers, hummingbirds are known to visit Columbine flowers frequently, especially when other food sources are scarce. Including Columbine in your garden will provide a beautiful and alluring addition while also attracting hummingbirds to your outdoor space.
Lily
Lilies are prized for their elegant beauty and fragrance, but did you know they can also attract hummingbirds? While not all lily varieties are equally enticing to these tiny birds, certain types, such as the trumpet lily or oriental lily, can serve as a valuable nectar source. The large and showy flowers of these lilies, combined with their tubular shape, make them highly appealing to hummingbirds. By incorporating lilies into your garden, you not only add a touch of sophistication but also create a haven for hummingbirds to indulge in the sweet nectar produced by these stunning flowers.
Fireweed
Fireweed is a wildflower that lights up the landscape with its vibrant pink-purple flowers. These tall spikes of flowers provide a bountiful source of nectar, making them excellent for attracting hummingbirds. The tubular shape of the Fireweed flowers allows hummingbirds to easily access the nectar with their long beaks. As an added benefit, Fireweed blooms later in the season, providing an essential food source for hummingbirds when other flowers may have already finished blooming. Incorporating Fireweed into your garden will not only attract hummingbirds but also add a burst of color to your outdoor space.
Phlox
Phlox is a versatile flower that comes in many different colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, and white. These fragrant flowers provide an ample supply of nectar, making them highly attractive to hummingbirds. The tubular shape of the Phlox flowers allows easy access to the nectar for hummingbirds and their long beaks. Additionally, the vibrant colors of the Phlox petals act as a visual beacon, enticing hummingbirds to visit and indulge in the sweet treat offered by these flowers. Including Phlox in your garden will undoubtedly create a buzzing hub of activity as hummingbirds flock to enjoy the abundant nectar supply provided by these lovely flowers.
In conclusion, attracting hummingbirds to your garden in Maine can be easily achieved by incorporating a variety of flowers that possess the key characteristics they are attracted to – lots of nectar, tubular-shaped flowers, and the color red. From the vibrant trumpet honeysuckle to the striking red cardinal flower and the aromatic sage, there are numerous options to choose from. By including a combination of these flowers, your garden will not only be filled with beautiful blooms but also become a haven for hummingbirds to enjoy the abundant nectar and bring joy to your outdoor space.