Do Hummingbirds Like Zinnias? Growing Tips + 8 Other Flowers Hummingbirds Love

While many gardeners adore animals like butterflies, rabbits, and deer, hummingbirds in particular have captured the hearts of many. Although they only visit some states for a short while, many people have gone to great lengths to transform their yards into hummingbird paradises in hopes that these creatures decide to take up residence there. While some individuals choose to hang up hummingbird feeders, others decide to plant flowers that these birds are attracted to. These birds prefer certain flowers over others, and gardeners can use this information to their advantage when planning their gardens. Let’s explore whether or not hummingbirds like zinnias, share growing tips, and discuss some other flowers that these birds love!

Do Hummingbirds Like Zinnias?

Zinnias are famous for their ability to attract a wide variety of pollinators to any garden. Butterflies, moths, bees, and birds all adore these bright blossoms, and hummingbirds are no exception! While hummingbirds have a varied diet that consists of both insects and nectar, many prefer to visit flowers to meet their dietary needs. In addition to being a hummingbird favorite, zinnias are also aesthetically pleasing and quite affordable.

What Types of Zinnias Do Hummingbirds Favor?

Now that you know that hummingbirds love zinnias, you might be wondering which varieties you should plant. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, there are three main varieties of zinnias: single, double, and semi-double. These names correspond to how many rows of petals each variety has. While pollinators seem to prefer flat, easily accessible zinnias, their shape is less important than their content. The amount of pollen and nectar your zinnias contain will be the largest determining factor of whether or not hummingbirds will come to visit. Some pollen and nectar-rich zinnias include Lilliput, California Giant, Mardi Gras, Cut And Come Again, and Zahara. Because hummingbirds adore shades of red, pink, and orange, consider planting zinnias in these shades around your garden in order to catch their eye.

How to Grow Zinnias in Your Garden

Unlike other flowers, zinnias are not perennials. This means that you’ll have to replant these flowers in your garden year after year in order for them to return. While this is a little extra work, these flowers are easy to care for once established. Although these flowers can handle some shade, they much prefer full-sun locations. Zinnias don’t require excessive watering, typically once every two or three days is sufficient. However, individuals living in drier locations may want to water daily to ensure the flowers bloom their best.

Don’t be discouraged if hummingbirds don’t come to visit your zinnias right away. These birds are creatures of habit, and many of them will visit the same few flowers and feeders over and over again once they’ve established a routine. Because of this, the best time of year to start growing your zinnias is early spring. This way, when migratory hummingbirds return to your state, they’ll add your garden to their daily itinerary for the season!

Other Flowers That Hummingbirds Love

It’s no secret that hummingbirds tend to gravitate towards long, tubular flowers. Some of their favorite flowers of all include foxgloves, honeysuckle, snapdragons, and lupine. However, you might be surprised to learn that these plants are attractive to hummingbirds because of their shape. The long beaks and tongues that these birds have help them easily access nectar within these flowers that other animals may be unable to. Because of this, tube-shaped flowers often go untouched and provide these birds with the energy they need.

While flowers of this shape are sure to catch their attention, they’re not the only ones these birds are attracted to. Hummingbirds are partial to shades of red. (This is why hummingbird feeders are typically produced in this color!) Red flowers, plants, and decor are sure to attract them to your yard. Try planting daylilies, bee balm, trumpet vine, and cardinal flowers. Hummingbirds need to eat almost constantly in order to maintain their body weight. Keeping your garden full of hummingbird-friendly flowers will help ensure that they visit your yard all season long!

Final Thoughts

In essence, planting zinnias in your garden is a wonderful way to attract hummingbirds to your home. In addition, these flowers are easy to grow and maintain which makes them excellent for both experienced and amateur gardeners alike. While these aren’t the only flowers that will help attract hummingbirds, they’re at the top of the list.