Delaware is a haven for hummingbirds, with a diverse array of flowers that cater to their delicate tastes. In fact, there are 23 types of flowers known to attract these dynamic creatures in the state. To capture the attention of hummingbirds, the flowers must possess certain traits: an abundance of nectar, tubular-shaped blossoms, and the vibrant color red. Delaware boasts a delightful collection of hummingbird flowers, including the charismatic Trumpet Vine, the enchanting Trumpet Honeysuckle, the striking Red Cardinal Flower, and many more. However, the success of attracting hummingbirds relies not only on the flower’s characteristics but also on the specific growing requirements of each species, such as USDA hardiness zone, bloom time, and light requirements. To ensure the best results in attracting these delightful birds, it is crucial to select native species. So, let’s explore the wonderful world of Delaware’s hummingbird flowers and discover the perfect addition to your garden.
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)
The Trumpet Vine, also known as Campsis radicans, is a beautiful flower that attracts hummingbirds with its bright orange tubular-shaped flowers. It is a vigorous, woody vine that can reach heights of up to 30 feet. This flower is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and blooms from late spring to early fall. It thrives in full sun to part shade, making it a versatile choice for different garden conditions. With its ample nectar production, the Trumpet Vine is an excellent choice for attracting hummingbirds to your garden in Delaware.
Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
Another great option for attracting hummingbirds is the Trumpet Honeysuckle. Lonicera sempervirens is a native vine that features clusters of tubular-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Its trumpet-like shape is perfectly designed for the long beaks of hummingbirds to sip nectar from. This flower thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and blooms from late spring to early fall. It prefers full sun to part shade, making it adaptable to various garden conditions. The Trumpet Honeysuckle is not only attractive to hummingbirds but also adds a burst of color to any garden.
Red Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
The Red Cardinal Flower, or Lobelia cardinalis, is a stunning perennial flower that is highly attractive to hummingbirds. With its vibrant red tubular-shaped flowers, it is hard for hummingbirds to resist this plant. This flower is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 3-9 and blooms from late summer to early fall. It thrives in full sun to part shade, making it a versatile choice for different garden conditions. The Red Cardinal Flower is not only a favorite of hummingbirds but also adds a bold and eye-catching element to any garden landscape.
Bee Balm (Monarda spp.)
Bee Balm, also known as Monarda, is a beautiful flower that attracts hummingbirds and bees alike. Its clusters of tubular-shaped flowers come in various shades of pink, red, purple, and white, making it a vibrant addition to any garden. Bee Balm is native to North America and thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9. It blooms during the summer months and prefers full sun to part shade. The nectar-rich flowers of Bee Balm make it an excellent choice for attracting hummingbirds and supporting pollinators in your garden.
Sage (Salvia spp.)
Sage, or Salvia, is a diverse genus of flowering plants that includes many species attractive to hummingbirds. The tubular-shaped flowers of Salvia come in various colors, including shades of red, purple, and blue. The blooming period of Sage varies depending on the species, but generally occurs from spring to summer. Unlike some of the other flowers on this list, Sage’s USDA hardiness zone varies depending on the species, so it is essential to choose the right species for your specific climate. Sage prefers full sun and is an excellent choice for both attracting hummingbirds and providing visual interest in your garden.
Rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.)
Rhododendron is a popular flowering shrub that produces stunning blooms in various colors, including shades of pink, purple, white, and red. While it may not have the tubular-shaped flowers typically associated with hummingbird flowers, Rhododendron attracts hummingbirds with its ample nectar production. This shrub is well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 4-9 and blooms in the spring. It thrives in part shade to shade, making it an ideal choice for adding a pop of color and attracting hummingbirds to shaded areas of your garden.
Lupine (Lupinus spp.)
Lupine is a beautiful wildflower that is highly attractive to hummingbirds. With its tall spikes of vibrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow, it creates a stunning visual display in any garden. Lupine blooms from late spring to early summer and prefers full sun to part shade. The exact USDA hardiness zone for Lupine varies depending on the species, so it is crucial to choose the right one for your specific climate. Adding Lupine to your garden not only attracts hummingbirds but also enhances the overall beauty and diversity of your outdoor space.
Columbine (Aquilegia spp.)
Columbines, or Aquilegia, are delicate and elegant flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Their unique tubular-shaped flowers come in various colors, including shades of red, pink, purple, yellow, and white. Columbines bloom from spring to early summer and prefer part shade to full sun. They are well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 3-9 and are an excellent choice for adding a touch of whimsy and charm to your garden while attracting hummingbirds at the same time.
Lily (Lilium spp.)
Lilies are beautiful and fragrant flowers that are loved by both gardeners and hummingbirds. With their trumpet-shaped flowers, they provide a perfect landing spot for hummingbirds to feed on nectar. Lilies come in various colors, including shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, and white. They bloom during the summer and prefer full sun to part shade. The USDA hardiness zone for lilies varies depending on the species, so it is important to choose the right one for your specific climate. By planting lilies in your garden, you can enjoy their beauty and fragrance while attracting hummingbirds.
Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)
Fuchsia is another flower that attracts hummingbirds with its tubular-shaped blooms. These flowers come in a variety of colors, including shades of red, pink, and purple. Fuchsias bloom from summer to fall and prefer part shade to full sun. The exact USDA hardiness zone for Fuchsia varies depending on the species, so it is important to choose the right one for your specific climate. Adding Fuchsia to your garden not only attracts hummingbirds but also adds a splash of color and elegance to your outdoor space.