This informative article, titled “23 Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds in Indiana,” is a delightful compilation of flowers that are known to attract these enchanting birds. With an understanding of the importance of nectar, the article highlights the traits that make certain flowers excellent choices for hummingbirds. From tubular-shaped blossoms that prevent access to other pollinators to vibrant red hues, these flowers not only provide a visual spectacle but also serve as a vital source of nourishment for hummingbirds. With a list of 23 flowers that include Trumpet Vine, Bee Balm, Columbine, and many more, each flower is accompanied by pertinent growing information, allowing readers to make informed choices for their own gardens. Whether native to Indiana or suitable for various regions, these flowers offer a wonderful opportunity to create a welcoming habitat for hummingbirds in backyard gardens.
Trumpet Vine
Growing Information
Trumpet Vine, also known as Campsis radicans, is a vigorous, fast-growing vine that is native to the southeastern United States. It can reach heights of up to 30 feet and spread up to 15 feet wide. Trumpet Vine is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9 and prefers full sun to partial shade.
When planting Trumpet Vine, ensure that it has plenty of space to grow and establish a strong structure to support its weight. It is best to plant it near a trellis, fence, or other structure that it can climb on. Trumpet Vine can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, but it prefers well-draining soil.
Traits of Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Vine produces beautiful, orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds. The tubular shape of the flowers makes them a perfect fit for hummingbird beaks, while preventing other pollinators from accessing the nectar.
In addition to its vibrant flowers, Trumpet Vine also provides a dense canopy of green foliage, making it an excellent choice for creating privacy screens or covering unsightly structures. Its vigorous growth and ability to climb also make it a great choice for adding vertical interest to your garden.
Trumpet Honeysuckle
Growing Information
Trumpet Honeysuckle, scientifically known as Lonicera sempervirens, is a native vine that can be found in the eastern and central parts of the United States. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9 and prefers full sun to partial shade.
When planting Trumpet Honeysuckle, choose a location with well-draining soil. This vine can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy or clay soils. It is important to provide a trellis or other support structure for Trumpet Honeysuckle to climb on.
Traits of Trumpet Honeysuckle
Trumpet Honeysuckle produces clusters of tubular, red-orange flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds. These flowers have a sweet fragrance that adds an extra touch of beauty to your garden.
In addition to its floral display, Trumpet Honeysuckle produces bright red berries in the fall, which are also a source of food for wildlife. Its glossy green leaves provide an attractive backdrop to the vibrant flowers and berries.
Red Cardinal Flower
Growing Information
Red Cardinal Flower, also known as Lobelia cardinalis, is a herbaceous perennial that is native to North America. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9 and prefers full sun to partial shade.
When planting Red Cardinal Flower, choose a location with moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought once established but prefers consistently moist conditions. This plant is best suited to moist areas such as the edges of ponds or streams.
Traits of Red Cardinal Flower
Red Cardinal Flower produces vibrant red, tubular flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds. The long, tubular shape of the flowers allows hummingbirds to access the nectar easily while keeping other insects at bay.
In addition to its attractive flowers, Red Cardinal Flower has lance-shaped, deep green leaves that provide an elegant backdrop. This plant adds a splash of vibrant color to any garden and is a magnet for hummingbirds.
Bee Balm
Growing Information
Bee Balm, scientifically known as Monarda didyma, is a herbaceous perennial that is native to North America. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9 and thrives in full sun to partial shade.
When planting Bee Balm, choose a location with well-draining soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH but can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Ensure that the soil is kept consistently moist, as Bee Balm is not drought-tolerant.
Traits of Bee Balm
Bee Balm produces clusters of vibrant, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, and purple. These flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and provide a generous amount of nectar. The tubular shape of the flowers also prevents other pollinators from accessing the nectar, making it exclusive to hummingbirds.
In addition to its colorful flowers, Bee Balm has aromatic leaves that give off a pleasant fragrance when touched. The foliage is also known to attract butterflies and bees, adding to the biodiversity of your garden.
Sage (Salvia)
Growing Information
Sage, also known as Salvia, is a diverse group of plants that includes both annuals and perennials. Some common varieties of Sage include Salvia nemorosa and Salvia officinalis. The hardiness and growing requirements can vary depending on the specific variety, so it is important to research the specific Sage variety you are interested in growing.
Most varieties of Sage prefer full sun, well-draining soil, and are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8. They are relatively drought-tolerant once established and do not require excessive watering.
Traits of Sage (Salvia)
Sage produces spikes of tubular flowers in various colors, including red, purple, pink, and blue. These flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and provide a good source of nectar. The tubular shape of the flowers also ensures that only hummingbirds can access the nectar.
The foliage of Sage is also attractive, with many varieties featuring aromatic leaves. Sage plants can vary in height, with some reaching up to 3 feet tall. This diversity in size allows you to choose the perfect Sage variety for your garden and its specific needs.
Lupine
Growing Information
Lupine, scientifically known as Lupinus, is a genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. Lupine species can be found in various parts of the world, including North and South America, Europe, and Africa. The hardiness and growing requirements can vary depending on the specific Lupine species you are interested in growing.
Most Lupines prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They are typically hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9 and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy or rocky soils.
Traits of Lupine
Lupine produces stunning, upright spikes of flowers in various colors, including blue, purple, pink, and white. These flowers have a distinctive shape that resembles a pea, with a tubular structure that is highly attractive to hummingbirds. The flowers are arranged in densely packed clusters, creating a dramatic floral display.
In addition to its beautiful flowers, Lupine has palmate leaves that add a unique texture to the garden. These leaves are typically green but can vary in color depending on the species. Lupine plants can reach heights of up to 3 feet, adding vertical interest to your garden.
Columbine
Growing Information
Columbine, scientifically known as Aquilegia, is a diverse genus of perennial plants that includes many different species. Columbine species can be found in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. The hardiness and growing requirements can vary depending on the specific Columbine species you are interested in growing.
Most Columbines prefer partial shade to full sun and well-draining soil. They are typically hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9 and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Some species prefer moist soil, while others can tolerate drier conditions.
Traits of Columbine
Columbine produces delicate, bell-shaped flowers in various colors, including red, pink, purple, blue, and white. These flowers have a unique shape that features long, tubular spurs that extend behind the petals. The nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, who are able to easily access the nectar with their long beaks.
The foliage of Columbine is also attractive, with many species featuring blue-green or gray-green leaves. The leaves are often divided into lobes or segments, adding an interesting texture to the garden. Columbine plants can reach heights of up to 3 feet, making them an excellent choice for adding height to your garden beds.
Lily
Growing Information
Lilies are a diverse group of flowering plants that belong to the genus Lilium. There are many different species and hybrids of lilies, each with its own growing requirements and hardiness. It is important to research the specific lily variety you are interested in growing to ensure that you provide the ideal growing conditions.
Most lilies prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They are typically hardy in USDA zones 3 to 10, depending on the variety. Lilies can be grown from bulbs, which should be planted in the fall or early spring.
Traits of Lily
Lilies produce large, showy flowers in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, orange, pink, and red. These flowers have a distinct shape with six petals that are often curved backward. The flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, who are drawn to their bright colors and nectar-rich blooms.
In addition to their stunning flowers, lilies have long, lance-shaped leaves that provide an elegant backdrop. The foliage can be evergreen or deciduous depending on the species. Lilies are a classic choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds while adding a touch of elegance to their outdoor space.
Indian Pink
Growing Information
Indian Pink, scientifically known as Spigelia marilandica, is a herbaceous perennial that is native to the southeastern United States. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9 and prefers partial to full shade.
When planting Indian Pink, choose a location with moist, well-draining soil. This plant is best suited to woodland gardens or shaded areas. Ensure that the soil is kept consistently moist, as Indian Pink does not tolerate drought well.
Traits of Indian Pink
Indian Pink produces clusters of tubular, red flowers with yellow throats. These flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, who are able to easily access the nectar with their long beaks. The combination of red and yellow makes these flowers a striking addition to any garden.
In addition to its vibrant flowers, Indian Pink has lance-shaped, dark green leaves that provide an attractive backdrop. This plant adds a splash of color to shaded areas and can be used to create a hummingbird-friendly habitat in your garden.
Beard Tongues
Growing Information
Beard Tongues, scientifically known as Penstemon, is a diverse genus of flowering plants that includes both annuals and perennials. Beard Tongues can be found in various parts of the world, including North America and Eurasia. The hardiness and growing requirements can vary depending on the specific Beard Tongue variety you are interested in growing.
Most Beard Tongues prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They are typically hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9 and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy or rocky soils.
Traits of Beard Tongues
Beard Tongues produce tubular flowers in various colors, including pink, purple, red, and white. These flowers have a distinct shape with a hairy or “bearded” lower lip, which gives them their common name. The tubular shape of the flowers makes them highly attractive to hummingbirds, who are able to easily access the nectar.
The foliage of Beard Tongues varies depending on the species, with some featuring lance-shaped leaves and others having more narrow, grass-like leaves. The foliage is typically green or gray-green, adding a touch of color to the garden even when the plants are not in bloom. Beard Tongues are a great choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds while adding a unique touch to their landscape.
In conclusion, there are many flowers that attract hummingbirds to your garden in Indiana. From Trumpet Vine to Beard Tongues, each flower has its own unique growing requirements and traits that make them a favorite among hummingbirds. By planting these flowers in your garden, you can create a beautiful habitat for hummingbirds and enjoy the beauty and activity they bring to your outdoor space.
