What Are the Different Types of Hummingbird Lunch Plant

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures that are known for their unique ability to hover in mid-air and feed on the nectar of flowers. These tiny birds have a high metabolism and need to consume large amounts of food to sustain their energy levels. One way to attract hummingbirds to your garden is by planting lunch plants specifically designed to provide them with a nutritious meal. In this article, we will explore the different types of hummingbird lunch plants that you can incorporate into your garden.

1. Salvia

Salvia, also known as sage, is a popular choice among hummingbirds due to its vibrant colors and abundant nectar. This perennial plant produces long tubular flowers that are perfect for the long beaks of hummingbirds. There are many varieties of salvia available, including scarlet sage (Salvia coccinea), autumn sage (Salvia greggii), and black and blue sage (Salvia guaranitica). These plants thrive in sunny locations and require well-drained soil.

2. Bee Balm

Bee balm (Monarda) is another excellent choice for attracting hummingbirds to your garden. This plant produces clusters of tubular flowers in various shades of red, pink, purple, and white. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that is irresistible to hummingbirds. Bee balm blooms from late spring to early fall and prefers full sun or partial shade. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions.

3. Trumpet Vine

Trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) is a fast-growing vine that produces large trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of orange or red. The flowers contain copious amounts of nectar, making them highly attractive to hummingbirds. Trumpet vine can be grown on a trellis or allowed to climb up fences or walls. It is a low-maintenance plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

4. Cardinal Flower

Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) is a perennial plant that produces vibrant red flowers with long tubular petals. The flowers are rich in nectar and have a distinct shape that is perfectly suited for hummingbirds. Cardinal flower thrives in moist, shady areas and can be grown along the edges of ponds or streams. This plant requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.

5. Columbine

Columbine (Aquilegia) is a delicate flower that comes in a variety of colors, including shades of red, pink, yellow, and purple. The unique shape of the flowers, with their long spurs and distinctive petals, makes them attractive to hummingbirds. Columbine prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. It is a short-lived perennial that self-seeds readily, allowing it to spread throughout your garden.

6. Penstemon

Penstemon, also known as beardtongue, is a drought-tolerant plant that produces tubular flowers in various shades of red, pink, purple, and white. The flowers have a pleasing scent and are excellent sources of nectar for hummingbirds. Penstemon thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. This plant is highly attractive to bees as well.

7. Coral Bells

Coral bells (Heuchera) are known for their attractive foliage and delicate bell-shaped flowers. The flowers come in various shades of red, pink, purple, and white and are loved by hummingbirds. Coral bells prefer partial shade but can tolerate full sun if provided with adequate moisture. These plants are great for adding color and texture to your garden while attracting hummingbirds.

8. Lantana

Lantana is a versatile plant that produces clusters of small, brightly colored flowers in a wide range of hues, including red, orange, yellow, pink, and purple. The flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Lantana thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is a hardy plant that can withstand high temperatures and drought conditions.

9. Fuchsia

Fuchsia is a popular flowering plant that is loved by hummingbirds for its vibrant colors and abundant nectar. The flowers come in various shades of pink, purple, red, and white and have a distinctive shape that is perfectly suited for hummingbirds. Fuchsia prefers partial shade and well-drained soil. It requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist.

10. Agastache

Agastache, also known as hyssop or hummingbird mint, is a perennial plant that produces spikes of tubular flowers in shades of orange, pink, purple, and blue. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Agastache thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate dry conditions once established.

In conclusion, attracting hummingbirds to your garden can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. By incorporating lunch plants specifically designed to provide them with a nutritious meal, you can create a haven for these delightful creatures. The different types of hummingbird lunch plants mentioned in this article offer a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes to suit any garden. Whether you prefer perennials or annuals, there is always a lunch plant option available to attract hummingbirds and bring joy to your outdoor space. So why not start planting today and invite these enchanting birds into your garden?