What Kind of Flowers Attract Hummingbirds, and Why Do They Prefer Red Over Blue?

What Kind of Flowers Attract Hummingbirds, and Why Do They Prefer Red Over Blue?

Hummingbirds are fascinating creatures, known for their vibrant colors, rapid wing beats, and their unique ability to hover in mid-air. These tiny birds are also famous for their love of nectar, which they obtain from flowers. But what kind of flowers attract hummingbirds, and why do they seem to prefer red over blue? In this article, we will explore the various types of flowers that attract hummingbirds, the reasons behind their color preferences, and how you can create a hummingbird-friendly garden.

Types of Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds

Hummingbirds are attracted to flowers that are rich in nectar and have bright, vibrant colors. Some of the most popular flowers that attract hummingbirds include:

  1. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans): This vigorous climber produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are a favorite of hummingbirds. The bright orange or red flowers are rich in nectar and provide a perfect feeding spot for these birds.

  2. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma): Also known as wild bergamot, bee balm produces clusters of tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, and purple. The flowers are not only attractive to hummingbirds but also to bees and butterflies.

  3. Salvia (Salvia spp.): Salvia, or sage, is a genus of plants that includes many species with tubular flowers that are perfect for hummingbirds. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, blue, and purple.

  4. Columbine (Aquilegia spp.): Columbine flowers have unique, spurred petals that are ideal for hummingbirds. The flowers come in a range of colors, including red, yellow, and blue.

  5. Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.): Fuchsia plants produce pendulous flowers that are rich in nectar. The flowers are typically red or purple, making them highly attractive to hummingbirds.

  6. Penstemon (Penstemon spp.): Also known as beardtongue, penstemon produces tubular flowers that are perfect for hummingbirds. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, and purple.

  7. Lobelia (Lobelia spp.): Lobelia plants produce spikes of tubular flowers that are rich in nectar. The flowers are typically blue or purple, but some species produce red flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds.

  8. Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.): Honeysuckle vines produce fragrant, tubular flowers that are rich in nectar. The flowers are typically white, yellow, or red, making them a favorite of hummingbirds.

Why Do Hummingbirds Prefer Red Flowers?

One of the most intriguing aspects of hummingbird behavior is their apparent preference for red flowers. While hummingbirds are known to visit flowers of various colors, they seem to be particularly drawn to red blooms. There are several theories as to why this might be the case:

  1. Color Perception: Hummingbirds have excellent color vision and can see a wide range of colors, including ultraviolet light. Red flowers may stand out more prominently against the green foliage, making them easier for hummingbirds to spot.

  2. Nectar Guides: Many red flowers have nectar guides, which are patterns or markings that guide pollinators to the nectar. These guides are often visible in ultraviolet light, which hummingbirds can see. The combination of red color and nectar guides may make red flowers particularly attractive to hummingbirds.

  3. Evolutionary Adaptation: Over time, hummingbirds and red flowers may have co-evolved to form a mutually beneficial relationship. Red flowers may have evolved to attract hummingbirds, while hummingbirds may have developed a preference for red flowers as a reliable source of nectar.

  4. Competition with Other Pollinators: Bees, which are also important pollinators, are less attracted to red flowers because they cannot see the color red as well as hummingbirds can. This may give hummingbirds a competitive advantage when foraging for nectar in red flowers.

Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Garden

If you want to attract hummingbirds to your garden, there are several steps you can take to create a hummingbird-friendly environment:

  1. Plant a Variety of Flowers: To attract hummingbirds, plant a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year. This will ensure that there is always a source of nectar available for the birds.

  2. Choose Red and Tubular Flowers: As mentioned earlier, hummingbirds are particularly attracted to red, tubular flowers. Include a mix of red, orange, and pink flowers in your garden to maximize their appeal.

  3. Provide a Water Source: Hummingbirds need water for drinking and bathing. Consider adding a birdbath or a small fountain to your garden to provide a water source for the birds.

  4. Avoid Pesticides: Pesticides can be harmful to hummingbirds and other pollinators. Avoid using chemical pesticides in your garden, and opt for natural pest control methods instead.

  5. Create Shelter: Hummingbirds need places to rest and take shelter from predators. Plant shrubs and trees in your garden to provide cover for the birds.

  6. Hang Hummingbird Feeders: In addition to planting flowers, you can also hang hummingbird feeders filled with a sugar-water solution. This will provide an additional source of nectar for the birds.

Q: Do hummingbirds only visit red flowers? A: No, hummingbirds visit flowers of various colors, but they are particularly attracted to red flowers. They also visit flowers that are orange, pink, purple, and even blue.

Q: How often should I change the nectar in my hummingbird feeder? A: You should change the nectar in your hummingbird feeder every 2-3 days, especially in hot weather, to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.

Q: Can I use artificial red dye in my hummingbird feeder? A: It is not recommended to use artificial red dye in hummingbird feeders. The dye can be harmful to the birds. Instead, use a clear sugar-water solution and choose a feeder with red parts to attract the birds.

Q: What is the best time of day to see hummingbirds in my garden? A: Hummingbirds are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. These are the best times to observe them in your garden.

Q: How can I tell if a flower is rich in nectar? A: Flowers that are rich in nectar often have tubular shapes and bright colors. Additionally, they may have a strong, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators.