If you want a colorful, lively garden that feels like it’s full of magic, planting flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies is the way to go. These little visitors are drawn to certain blooms because of their bright colors and sweet nectar.
The best part? You do not need a huge garden or tons of experience. A few well-chosen plants can turn your space into a pollinator paradise.
Table of Contents
Why Hummingbirds and Butterflies Love Certain Flowers
Hummingbirds and butterflies are both attracted to:
- Bright colors like red, orange, pink, and purple
- Flowers that are rich in nectar
- Shapes that make it easy to reach the nectar
- Sun-loving plants that are easy to spot
By planting a mix of flowers that bloom at different times, you can keep your garden buzzing from spring through fall.
Best Flowers That Attract Hummingbirds and Butterflies
Here are some of the top flowers that both hummingbirds and butterflies love. Most of them are easy to grow and beginner friendly.
Bee Balm (Monarda)
Bee balm has bright, spiky flowers that come in red, pink, and purple. It is a native plant that attracts hummingbirds with its tube-shaped blooms and butterflies with its scent. It grows well in full sun and comes back every year.
Salvia
Salvia is a long-blooming plant with purple, red, or blue flowers. The tall spikes are full of nectar and are loved by both types of pollinators. It thrives in sunny, dry spots and works great in containers too.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleia)
As the name suggests, butterfly bush is a favorite of butterflies. Its big, fragrant flower clusters bloom in pink, purple, or white. Hummingbirds also stop by for a quick drink. Just make sure to choose a non-invasive variety if it is not native to your area.
Zinnias
Zinnias are colorful, easy to grow, and perfect for beginners. Butterflies love their wide petals that are perfect for landing. These flowers bloom quickly and last all summer. You can grow them in pots, garden beds, or even small containers.
Trumpet Vine
Trumpet vine has bright red or orange flowers shaped like tubes. That shape is perfect for hummingbirds, who can reach deep inside. It grows fast and needs space to climb, so give it something sturdy to grow on.
Lantana
Lantana is a butterfly magnet. It grows in small flower clusters that come in yellow, pink, orange, or multicolored varieties. Hummingbirds visit too, especially in warmer areas. Lantana loves full sun and grows well in hot climates.
Columbine
Columbine has unique, star-like flowers with little spurs at the back. Hummingbirds love them, and butterflies stop by too. They are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring and do well in shady spots.
Coneflower (Echinacea)
Coneflowers are tall, daisy-like flowers that butterflies cannot resist. They are easy to grow, come back every year, and do well in dry conditions. Hummingbirds sometimes visit them too, especially when nectar is limited elsewhere.
Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
With bright red spikes of flowers, the cardinal flower is a hummingbird favorite. It prefers wet or moist soil and is a great choice for rain gardens or near water features. It also supports native butterfly species.
Milkweed
Milkweed is essential for monarch butterflies, since it is the only plant where they lay eggs. But it also attracts other butterflies and even hummingbirds. It is native in many regions and supports the entire pollinator food chain.
Tips for a Pollinator-Friendly Garden
- Plant in groups. Clusters of the same flower make it easier for pollinators to find food
- Choose native plants. They are better adapted to your local pollinators
- Avoid pesticides. Chemicals can harm hummingbirds, butterflies, and their larvae
- Use a mix of bloom times. Plant early, mid, and late-season flowers so there is always nectar available
- Add water. A shallow birdbath or butterfly puddling area helps support these visitors
Final Thoughts
If you want to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, the key is planting flowers they love. Bright colors, nectar-rich blooms, and a sunny space are all you need.
Whether you have a big backyard or just a few pots on a balcony, you can create a pollinator-friendly garden that brings nature right to your door.
If you want help picking flowers for your specific zone or sunlight level, let me know and I can give you a personalized list.
