Attract More Hummingbirds: The Best Flowers for Every Zone
Hummingbirds aren’t just drawn to feeders — they also love bright, nectar-rich flowers that mimic their natural habitat. Planting the right flowers can transform your yard into a hummingbird haven and give them the fuel they need throughout the season. But to help your flowers (and your hummingbirds) thrive, it’s important to choose plants that grow well in your climate.
What Are USDA Hardiness Zones?
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map divides the United States into zones based on average annual minimum winter temperatures. This helps gardeners know which plants are most likely to survive and flourish in their area.
Zones 1–2: Northern areas with brief summers, such as northern Alaska and parts of the Yukon.
Zones 3–5: Cooler regions like the northern U.S. (e.g., Minnesota, North Dakota, Maine).
Zones 6–8: Much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Pacific Northwest (e.g., Illinois, Pennsylvania, Oregon).
Zones 7–8: The South & Pacific Northwest, including Georgia, Texas, western Washington, and Oregon.
Zones 9–10: Mild-winter regions like southern Texas, central Florida, and coastal California.
Zones 11–13: Tropical areas including southern Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and other coastal tropical zones.
You can look up your USDA Plant Hardiness zone here or use the map below.
The Best Hummingbird Flowers for Every Zone
Once you know your zone, scroll down to find a hummingbird-friendly flower that thrives in your region. No matter where you live, there’s a flower that will flourish in your climate and delight your feathered friends.
Zones 1–2 — Short Growing Season:
In the coldest regions, hummingbirds visit briefly during summer. Plant fast-blooming annuals that thrive in short seasons, starting seeds indoors for an early display of nectar-rich color.
Flowers that Thrive Here:
- • Scarlet Sage – Bright red, quick-growing annual that provides nectar throughout the summer season.
- • Wild Cosmos – Easy-to-grow annual with airy flowers that bloom continuously all summer.
- • Catchfly – Compact plant with vibrant pink blooms offering early nectar for hummingbirds.
- • China Aster – Colorful annual with late-season flowers that extend blooms into fall.
Zones 3–5 — Cool to Cold Climates:
Cool springs and warm summers allow both hardy perennials and reseeding annuals to flourish. These flowers provide nectar from early summer through fall.
Flowers that Thrive Here:
- • Purple Coneflower – Long perennial with purple blooms that attract hummingbirds from summer to fall.
- • Rocket Larkspur – Tall, colorful spikes that bloom early and provide nectar for hummingbirds.
- • Lupine – Showy spring flowers in blue and purple shades, drawing early-season pollinators.
- • Bee Balm – Fragrant plant with tubular blooms that hummingbirds and bees flock to.
- • Catchfly, Cosmos, China Aster – Easy-growing annuals that add vibrant color and nectar all season.
Zones 6–8 — Moderate Climates:
These zones offer ideal conditions for both perennials and annuals, giving hummingbirds a nectar source from spring to late fall.
Flowers that Thrive Here:
- • Butterfly Weed – Bright orange blooms that appear in mid-summer and attract pollinators.
- • Rose Mallow – Hibiscus-like flowers rich in nectar, loved by hummingbirds.
- • Black-Eyed Susan – Golden blooms that last through late summer into fall.
- • Indian Blanket – Warm-colored flowers with an extended bloom period.
- • Plus all flowers listed for Zones 3-5
Zones 9–10 — Warm Climates:
Long growing seasons allow many flowers to reseed and bloom for months, offering hummingbirds an extended buffet.
Flowers that Thrive Here:
- • Scarlet Sage – Heat-loving plant with red tubular blooms that attract hummingbirds and flower into fall.
- • Indian Blanket – Daisy-like blooms in fiery red and yellow thrive in heat, adding nonstop color.
- • Cosmos – Tall plants with airy, colorful flowers that reseed easily and bloom for months.
- • Lemon Mint – Fragrant, nectar-rich blooms with tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds.
- • Coreopsis - Reliable warm-season bloomer with cheerful yellow flowers that thrive in sun and heat.
Zones 11-13 — Subtropical & Tropical Climates:
In warm, frost-free climates, temperate wildflowers often struggle. Instead, grow tropical perennials that bloom continuously, reseed easily, and provide nectar for hummingbirds year-round.
🌱 Shop Flowers that Thrive Here:
- • Nasturtium – Vibrant orange, red, and yellow blooms. Best as a cool-season annual in the tropics.
- • Scarlet Sage – Red tubular flowers bloom year-round in frost-free zones, attracting hummingbirds.
- • Firebush – Tropical shrub with orange-red flowers and year-round nectar. Also attracts butterflies.
- • Tropical Hibiscus – Large, vibrant blooms that flowers nearly year-round in tropical heat.
- • Firespike – Tall spikes of red flowers loved by hummingbirds. Thrives in humidity.
No matter your zone, you can create a beautiful, hummingbird‑friendly garden with the right flowers for your climate. Plant a few of these favorites this season and enjoy a garden alive with color and wings.
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