Guides

Native Plants That Attract Hummingbirds in the DC Area

Ruby-throated hummingbirds arrive in our area around mid-April and stay through early fall. Many people have hummingbird feeders — but most of their diet comes from insects! Here are some plants you can provide that give hummingbirds a nectar source and also provide habitat for the insects these birds need.

The secret is succession. Hummingbirds need food from the moment they arrive (when columbine is the lifeline) to the day they leave. Plant something from each season below and your yard becomes a reliable stop on their map year after year.

Spring — the welcome mat

Aquilegia canadensis — Wild Columbine. Blooms right when they arrive; arguably the most important hummingbird plant we have.
Lonicera sempervirens — Coral Honeysuckle. A well-behaved native vine that flowers red-orange spring into summer — a hummingbird staple.

Summer — peak season

Lobelia cardinalis — Cardinal Flower. Electric-red spikes built for hummingbird beaks; loves moist soil.
Monarda didyma — Scarlet Beebalm. Crimson, fragrant, irresistible.
Silene virginica — Fire Pink. Vivid red star-flowers for a sunny edge.
Spigelia marilandica — Indian Pink. Red tubes tipped in yellow; a showstopper in part shade.

Late summer & fall — fuel for the journey

Campsis radicans — Trumpet Creeper. A hummingbird magnet — but vigorous, so give it a fence or post and room to roam.
Lobelia siphilitica — Great Blue Lobelia. Cardinal flower's blue cousin; extends the season.
Salvia coccinea / lyrata — Native Salvias. Long-blooming nectar into fall.

Want hummingbirds at your window?

A few well-placed natives near a deck or kitchen window turns hummingbird-watching into a daily event. I'll design it in.

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