Do hummingbirds like lavender? The short answer is yes.
Indeed, lavender is a popular plant among hummingbirds, and it offers several benefits that make it a great addition to any garden.
Keep reading to learn why hummingbirds are drawn to lavender and what other flowers to plant next to it to make your garden a hummingbird haven.
Key Takeaways
- Lavender is a popular plant among hummingbirds due to its color, scent, and shape
- Planting lavender in your garden creates an inviting space for hummingbirds
- Optimal garden conditions and design can help attract and support hummingbirds in your outdoor space
Do Hummingbirds Like Lavender? (Yes!)
- Hummingbirds are known to be attracted to various types of flowers, including lavender. The allure of lavender for these tiny birds can be attributed to a combination of factors, such as its vibrant color, enticing aroma, and unique shape of the flower spikes.
- These birds are drawn to the color purple, and lavender flowers offer one of their preferred shades.
- Another reason that hummingbirds are fond of lavender is due to the flower’s structure. The flower spikes make it easy for hummingbirds to hover and access the nectar with their long beaks. This allows them to get a satisfying meal without expending too much energy.
Read Next: Do Hummingbirds Like Sunflowers?
Why Plant Lavender?
- Lavender plants tend to be a popular addition to gardens because they are relatively easy to grow and maintain. They provide a number of benefits, including being a source of nectar that hummingbirds enjoy.
- The relationship between hummingbirds and lavender benefits both parties. As the hummingbirds feed on the nectar, they play a crucial role in the pollination process, which helps the lavender to thrive. This, in turn, ensures a continued food source for the hummingbirds.
- Not only do these beautiful flowers attract hummingbirds, but they are also known to draw in butterflies. This makes lavender an excellent choice for garden enthusiasts who are looking to create a more vibrant and lively outdoor space.
Attracting Hummingbirds to Your Garden
One key to drawing these delightful creatures into your garden is providing an abundance of nectar-rich flowers. If you select the right plants and colors, you can create a haven for these beloved pollinators.
Check out this article to learn how to attract hummingbirds.
Nectar-Rich Flowers
To attract hummingbirds, focus on plants that are abundant in nectar. These nectar-rich flowers offer the sustenance these small birds need. A great selection of flowers includes:
- Lavender: Not only is lavender rich in nectar, but it’s also an excellent insect repellent, allowing hummingbirds to feed undisturbed.
- Bee balms: A perennial favorite for hummingbirds, bee balms produce vivid, tubular flowers that are perfect for these birds to feed from.
- Columbines: These elegant flowers come in various colors and are loved by hummingbirds for their rich nectar.
- Daylilies: With their abundant blooms and nectar, daylilies are a popular choice for attracting hummingbirds to your garden.
When selecting flowers, keep in mind that hummingbirds are especially attracted to red and orange shades. However, they will also visit flowers in other colors, such as purple, pink, white, and lavender.
Additionally, consider providing perches in your garden for hummingbirds to rest on, such as small branches on bushes and trees. This will make your garden an even more inviting space for these amazing creatures.
With the right choice of nectar-rich flowers and a welcoming environment, your garden will soon become a hummingbird hotspot, providing endless entertainment and enjoyment for both you and these fascinating pollinators.
Plants That Attract Hummingbirds
Annuals and Perennials
There are many annual and perennial plants that can attract hummingbirds to your garden.
For instance, red hot poker (Kniphofia uvaria) boasts vibrant, tubular flowers that are a perfect match for the long beaks of hummingbirds, allowing them to sip on the plant’s nectar.
Similarly, the vivid red flowers of the cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) and the tubular, nectar-rich blooms of penstemon (Penstemon spp.) are both exceptional choices for luring these fascinating birds to your garden.
Lupine (Lupinus spp.), with its tall spires of colorful flowers, also works wonders in attracting hummingbirds. Meanwhile, petunias (Petunia spp.) are an excellent annual option, blossoming in various shades and providing an abundant source of nectar for hummingbirds throughout the season.
Some popular perennials known to attract hummingbirds include:
- Red hot poker
- Cardinal flower
- Penstemon (Beardtongue)
- Lupine
If you want more perennials that attract hummingbirds, read this article.
And a few popular annuals for hummingbirds:
- Petunias
- Cleome
- Morning glory
- Salvia
For more annual flowers that attract hummingbirds, check out this article.
Shrubs and Trees
In addition to lavender, shrubs like lantana (Lantana camara) and bee balm (Monarda didyma) are also known to be hummingbird-friendly, offering a mix of nectar-rich flowers in various colors.
In terms of trees, consider species with long, tubular flowers, such as rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus). Their blooms are both easy for hummingbirds to access and provide a consistent supply of nectar.
Read Also: Trees That Attract Hummingbirds
Vines
Climbing vines are another enticing option that can easily help attract hummingbirds. With their long, tubular flowers, species like honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.) and trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) are ideal candidates.
Apart from their stunning flowers, these plants can easily be trained to grow on fences, trellises, or pergolas, offering a combination of visual appeal and hummingbird attraction.
As you can tell, there is a wide range of annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and vines that are well-suited to attracting hummingbirds. Adding these plants into your garden design can ensure a vibrant and fascinating space that both you and your local hummingbirds will enjoy.
Optimal Garden Conditions for Hummingbirds
Sun, Shade, and Soil Requirements
Hummingbirds are attracted to vivid, nectar-rich flowers, and providing the right conditions for these plants will make your garden more appealing to these tiny creatures. You should focus on the three main factors: sun, shade, and soil requirements.
Full Sun vs. Partial Shade Plants
- For many hummingbird-attracting plants, full sun is necessary. These plants thrive best in areas that receive direct sunlight for most of the day.
- In addition to full sun, there are also some species that can grow in partial shade. For instance, Black Dragon Wisteria is a great option that can tolerate both full sun and semi-shade environments.
- This wide range of light preferences ensures that you have plants blooming throughout the day, providing ample resources for visiting hummingbirds.
Soil Care
- Soil conditions also play a vital role in creating an ideal environment for hummingbirds. Well-drained soil is important for most of these plants, as it helps prevent root rot and other issues that can hinder their growth.
- You might consider adding organic matter, such as compost, to your garden beds to improve the soil’s structure and its ability to retain moisture while promoting drainage.
- In addition to well-drained soil, some plants, like lavender, prefer slightly moist conditions. Water these plants just enough to ensure a damp environment without overwatering, which could lead to potential harm. For example, when planting lavender, make sure to water it well initially, and then reduce the frequency of watering once it is established.
The key is to carefully select plants that cater to various sun, shade, and soil requirements. This is how you create a diverse, hummingbird-friendly garden. Do consider using native plants for your region, as they will be more adapted to local conditions and serve as a natural food source for hummingbirds and other wildlife.
Garden Design and Maintenance for Hummingbirds
One of the key elements in attracting hummingbirds to your garden is creating a well-designed space that considers their needs and preferences. In this section, we will discuss how to provide shelter and nesting sites, as well as water sources for these tiny avian wonders.
Creating Shelter and Nesting Sites
- When planning your hummingbird garden, it’s wise to add trees, shrubs, and bushes that can serve as shelter and potential nesting sites for the birds.
- By adding a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees to your landscape, you can provide ample coverage for the birds throughout the year. Some popular choices for hummingbird-friendly plants include fuchsia, trumpet vine, and red hot poker.
- To further enhance nesting opportunities, provide nesting materials such as small twigs, moss, and leaves in your backyard. You can also set up a nesting platform or hummingbird house, but ensure it is placed securely and away from busy areas to minimize disturbance.
Water Sources for Hummingbirds
- Hummingbirds rely on water not only for drinking but also for maintaining personal hygiene. Installing a water source in your garden can make it even more inviting to these beautiful birds. Adding a shallow bird bath or a gently trickling fountain will provide the birds with a place to drink and bathe.
- Keep the water source clean and replenish it regularly to prevent algae growth and mosquito breeding.
- In colder regions, consider using a heater to keep the water from freezing during winter months.
Hummingbird Feeders and Supplementary Food
When setting up hummingbird feeders in your garden, it’s important to provide the right type of nourishment for these fascinating creatures.
Sugar Water
A popular choice is sugar water, which acts as a supplemental source of nectar for hummingbirds. This helps them during times when there may not be as many blooming flowers available nearby.
To prepare the sugar water mixture:
- Simply combine four parts of water with one part of white granulated sugar. Boil the water and then dissolve the sugar in it.
- Make sure to let the mixture cool completely before filling the feeder.
- It is crucial to avoid using any artificial sweeteners, dyes, honey, or brown sugar, as these substances can be harmful to hummingbirds.
Using Hummingbird Feeders
Hummingbird feeders come in various sizes and designs, but the most important factors to consider are ease of cleaning and capacity.
Opt for a feeder that’s emptied every day or two by your visiting hummingbirds to ensure freshness. Bacteria, mold, and fermentation can occur in sugar water, so it’s crucial to clean the feeder regularly to maintain the health and safety of your backyard visitors.
Protein Requirements
In addition to sugar water, it’s vital to provide hummingbirds with a source of protein. While they primarily consume nectar for energy, hummingbirds also require insects and spiders for the necessary protein, vitamins, and minerals in their diet.
Encouraging a healthy insect population in your garden and providing a pesticide-free environment will help supply this nutrition.
Combining hummingbird feeders with a garden rich in nectar-producing plants, such as lavender, will increase your chances of attracting these charming birds. By providing supplementary food sources and maintaining clean feeders, you’ll create a welcoming environment that supports a thriving hummingbird population.
Common Myths and Misconceptions
- There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding hummingbirds and their preferences, including their attraction to lavender. Some people believe that hummingbirds are only drawn to red flowers; however, this is a misconception. While they do have a preference for brightly colored blooms, hummingbirds will feed from flowers of any color, as long as the blossoms contain nectar1.
- Another common myth is that adding red dye to sugar water will attract more hummingbirds. The fact is, it isn’t necessary to add dye to sugar water, as feeders with red parts already do the trick to grab their attention2.
- In terms of scent, many assume that the fragrance of certain flowers, like lavender, plays a vital role in attracting hummingbirds. While hummingbirds are indeed attracted to the color and scent of lavender3, their primary focus is on finding flowers with abundant nectar, regardless of scent. Therefore, even an aromatic plant like lavender might not be their top choice if it doesn’t offer enough nectar.
- Some people might worry that lavender is invasive or harmful to hummingbirds. While certain species can be invasive, proper cultivation and maintenance can prevent this issue. Additionally, lavender is not toxic to hummingbirds, making it a safe addition to your garden. It’s important to note, however, that not all bright flowers attract hummingbirds – for example, marigolds don’t seem to be a favorite of these little birds4.
Selecting the Right Species for Your Region
When it comes to attracting hummingbirds, such as the ruby-throated hummingbird native to North America, it’s important to choose the right plants for your region. Nectar-rich plants, as well as plants that attract insects, provide a natural food source for these colorful creatures.
Selecting plant species that are best suited to your local climate and growing conditions can greatly increase the chances of hummingbirds visiting your garden.
- One plant variety to consider is Lavender, which is well-liked by hummingbirds and can be successfully grown in states such as Hawaii, New Mexico, Arizona, California, and Texas source. While lavender isn’t native to North America, there are other native plants you can choose to attract hummingbirds.
- For a more region-specific approach, focus on native plants to your area. This ensures compatibility with your local environment and better support for native hummingbird populations. Some examples of popular hummingbird-friendly native species include bee balms, columbines, daylilies, and lupines source.
- When selecting plant varieties, prioritize ones with red and orange shades, as these colors can better attract hummingbirds.
- Another excellent native plant option is Lonicera sempervirens, a type of honeysuckle that is known to be especially attractive to hummingbirds source. With its tubular blooms, this plant makes it easy for hummingbirds to access the nectar while they are foraging for food. Additionally, the cardinal flower is another native North American species that can be included in your garden as it provides nectar and attracts hummingbirds.
- Make sure to provide a mix of annuals, biennials, and perennials to maintain a continuity of blooming plants throughout the season, helping to keep hummingbirds well-fed and visiting your garden regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bees and hummingbirds like lavender?
Yes, both bees and hummingbirds are attracted to lavender. Lavender flowers have bright colors and pleasant scents that make them an excellent choice for attracting multiple pollinators, including these winged creatures 1.
What flower attracts hummingbirds the most?
While there isn’t a single flower that attracts hummingbirds the most, some top contenders include bee balm, trumpet vine, coral honeysuckle, and fuchsia. These flowers tend to have bright colors and tubular shapes that are well-suited for hummingbirds’ feeding preferences.
Does lavender attract butterflies or hummingbirds?
Lavender can attract both butterflies and hummingbirds. The brightly colored flower spikes of lavender are known to draw these pollinators 2. The combination of vibrant colors, pleasant fragrances, and nectar-filled blooms make lavender a popular choice for attracting a variety of pollinators.
Do hummingbirds like lilacs?
Hummingbirds may visit lilacs, but these flowers are not considered their top preference. They are more likely to be attracted to flowers with tubular shapes and bright colors, such as the aforementioned bee balm and trumpet vine.
What flowers do hummingbirds not like?
There are flowers that hummingbirds tend to avoid, such as daylilies. Although daylilies are vibrant and can attract other pollinators, hummingbirds don’t seem to find them as appealing 4. It’s important to choose flowers that cater to hummingbirds’ preferences for the best results.
Do hummingbirds like hibiscus?
Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to hibiscus flowers. Hibiscus plants have large, brightly colored blooms that provide a good nectar source for these small birds. Planting hibiscus in your garden will likely bring more hummingbirds to visit and feed.
Footnotes
- https://bwdmagazine.com/learn/hummingbirds/myths-about-hummingbirds/ ↩ ↩2
- https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/truth-common-hummingbird-myths/ ↩ ↩2
- https://planthunnies.com/do-hummingbirds-like-lavender/ ↩
- https://wildyards.com/do-hummingbirds-like-lavender/ ↩ ↩2