The Best Flowers for a Butterfly and Hummingbird Haven

Creating a garden that attracts both butterflies and hummingbirds requires selecting the right flowers that provide nectar, vibrant colors, and an inviting habitat. These pollinators are drawn to bright hues, tubular-shaped blossoms, and flowers that produce rich nectar. By planting a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the growing season, you can ensure a constant food source for these delightful creatures. Here are the best flowers to create a butterfly and hummingbird haven in your garden.

1. Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)

Bee balm is a favorite among hummingbirds and butterflies due to its bright red, pink, and purple blooms. This perennial produces fragrant flowers rich in nectar, making it an excellent choice for attracting pollinators. It thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soil.

2. Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)

As its name suggests, the butterfly bush is a top choice for attracting butterflies. It produces clusters of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue. Its long bloom period from summer to fall ensures continuous nectar for both butterflies and hummingbirds.

3. Salvia (Salvia spp.)

Salvia plants, also known as sages, have long tubular flowers that make them ideal for hummingbirds. Butterflies are also attracted to their vibrant red, purple, and blue blooms. These drought-tolerant perennials thrive in sunny locations and well-drained soil.

4. Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans)

Trumpet vines produce large, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These blooms are particularly appealing to hummingbirds due to their deep, nectar-filled structure. This fast-growing vine can cover arbors, trellises, or fences, providing a stunning display.

5. Lantana (Lantana camara)

Lantana is a hardy plant with clusters of tiny flowers in bright colors like orange, red, yellow, pink, and purple. It is a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds due to its high nectar content and long blooming season. Lantana is heat-tolerant and thrives in full sun.

6. Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

Coneflowers provide a vital nectar source for butterflies while also attracting hummingbirds. Their large, daisy-like flowers come in shades of pink, purple, white, and yellow. These hardy perennials grow well in full sun and tolerate drought conditions.

7. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)

With its striking red flowers, the cardinal flower is a top choice for attracting hummingbirds. Butterflies also visit these nectar-rich blooms. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in wet areas, making it perfect for rain gardens or pond edges.

8. Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)

Zinnias are easy-to-grow annuals that produce bright, daisy-like flowers in a wide range of colors. They are a favorite among butterflies and also attract hummingbirds. Since they bloom continuously from summer to fall, they provide a reliable nectar source.

9. Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)

Fuchsias are known for their pendulous, tubular flowers that dangle from hanging baskets or shaded garden areas. Their red and purple hues make them highly attractive to hummingbirds, while butterflies are also drawn to their nectar.

10. Pentas (Pentas lanceolata)

Pentas, also known as Egyptian star clusters, are rich in nectar and available in shades of red, pink, and purple. These flowers bloom in clusters and are loved by both butterflies and hummingbirds. They thrive in warm climates with plenty of sunlight.

11. Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.)

Honeysuckle vines produce fragrant, tubular flowers in colors like red, orange, pink, and yellow. These flowers are excellent nectar sources for hummingbirds, while butterflies also visit them frequently. This vine grows well on trellises and fences.

12. Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)

Milkweed is an essential plant for butterflies, especially monarchs, as it serves as both a nectar source and a host plant for caterpillars. Hummingbirds are also attracted to its small but nectar-rich flowers. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

13. Verbena (Verbena spp.)

Verbena produces small, clustered flowers in shades of purple, pink, and red. These low-growing, drought-tolerant plants bloom continuously and provide an abundant nectar supply for butterflies and hummingbirds.

14. Phlox (Phlox paniculata)

Phlox produces fragrant, colorful flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds alike. The tall garden phlox variety is particularly popular in pollinator gardens, blooming in shades of pink, purple, and white.

15. Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia uvaria)

Also known as torch lily, red hot poker plants produce tall spikes of tubular flowers in fiery red, orange, and yellow shades. Their high nectar content makes them a magnet for hummingbirds, while butterflies also benefit from their blooms.

Tips for Creating a Butterfly and Hummingbird Haven

• Plant in Clusters: Group flowers together to make it easier for butterflies and hummingbirds to find them.

• Choose a Variety of Bloom Times: Ensure that different flowers bloom throughout the growing season to provide a continuous nectar supply.

• Provide a Water Source: A shallow dish, birdbath, or fountain will attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

• Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals can be harmful to pollinators, so opt for organic gardening methods.

• Include Host Plants: Some butterflies lay their eggs on specific plants, such as milkweed for monarchs.

By incorporating these beautiful and nectar-rich flowers, you can create a vibrant garden that serves as a sanctuary for butterflies and hummingbirds. With the right selection of plants, your outdoor space will become a lively and colorful haven for these enchanting pollinators.