Imagine a blur of iridescent wings flitting amongst vibrant purple blooms, a tiny jewel hovering mid-air, sipping nectar with incredible precision. Hummingbirds, with their dazzling colors and acrobatic flight, are a welcome sight in any garden. Their energy-intensive lifestyle depends heavily on the nectar found in flowers. While many flowers offer this sweet treat, certain blossoms, particularly those adorned in the regal hue of purple, hold a special allure for these fascinating creatures. The growing interest in creating hummingbird gardens reflects a desire to support these vital pollinators, and understanding which purple flowers hummingbirds love to visit is key to crafting a truly irresistible haven. These purple blossoms, rich with sweet nectar, not only add beauty but also provide crucial sustenance for these magnificent birds.
Why Purple? The Hummingbird’s Preference
Understanding the hummingbird’s fascination with purple starts with understanding their visual world. These tiny birds possess exceptional color vision, far surpassing that of humans in certain aspects. Their eyes are particularly sensitive to bright colors, a trait that has evolved to help them locate nectar-rich flowers from a distance. While the color red often dominates discussions about hummingbird attractants, purple frequently emerges as a close and compelling second.
The science behind this preference lies in the hummingbird’s visual spectrum. They have cone cells in their eyes that allow them to see a wider range of colors than humans, including ultraviolet (UV) light. Some flowers, including many purple varieties, have UV patterns that are invisible to us but act like landing strips for hummingbirds, guiding them directly to the nectar source. This isn’t to say they *only* see UV patterns; the vibrant purple hue itself is highly visible and attractive to them.
Beyond the science of color perception, contrast plays a significant role. Purple flowers, often contrasted against a backdrop of lush green foliage, create a striking visual beacon for hummingbirds. Think of a vibrant purple salvia against a sea of green leaves, or a cluster of purple petunias spilling from a hanging basket. This stark contrast makes the flowers easier to spot, especially when hummingbirds are scanning the landscape from a distance or flying at high speeds.
Often, the strong attraction to specific colors, like purple, is related to the quantity and quality of the nectar it provides. Hummingbirds require a substantial amount of energy, fueling their rapid wingbeats and constant activity. Flowers that are visually appealing and boast nectar abundance become hummingbird hotspots. Let’s explore some of the most beloved purple flowers hummingbirds simply can’t resist visiting, examining both their visual appeal and the nectar they offer.
Top Purple Flowers for Hummingbirds
These are just a few examples, be sure to research plants that do well in your specific area.
Salvia (Sage)
Salvia, commonly known as sage, is a genus boasting a remarkable diversity of species and cultivars. Many purple salvia varieties are exceptionally attractive to hummingbirds, offering a profusion of tubular flowers that are perfectly shaped for their long beaks. ‘Black and Blue’ Salvia, with its striking dark stems and deep blue-purple flowers, is a hummingbird magnet. ‘Amistad’ Salvia, another favorite, produces velvety purple blooms throughout the summer and fall. ‘Mystic Spires Blue’ Salvia provides a stunning vertical accent with its abundant spires of true blue-purple flowers.
Salvia thrives in sunny locations with well-drained soil. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering. These plants are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional deadheading to encourage continuous blooming. Their extended bloom time and abundant nectar make them an invaluable addition to any hummingbird garden. Salvia is also drought-tolerant once established, making it a great option for water-wise gardens.
Petunia
Petunias, a classic garden favorite, offer a wealth of purple varieties that are irresistible to hummingbirds. Focus on trumpet-shaped petunias, as their tubular form is ideally suited for hummingbird feeding. Deep purple, lavender, and even bicoloured purple-and-white petunias can be highly attractive. Trailing petunias are perfect for hanging baskets and window boxes, creating a cascading display of purple blooms that will entice hummingbirds from afar. Upright petunias are well-suited for garden beds and containers, providing a vibrant splash of color.
Petunias prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Regular watering and fertilization are necessary to promote abundant blooming. Deadheading spent flowers is crucial to prevent seed production and encourage the plant to continue producing nectar-rich blossoms. Petunias are relatively easy to grow and provide a long season of color and nectar, making them a popular choice for hummingbird gardens.
Verbena
Verbena is celebrated for its long bloom time and vibrant colors, making it a standout choice for attracting hummingbirds. Purple Verbena varieties, with their clusters of small, nectar-rich flowers, are particularly alluring. The flowers are tightly packed together and offer many opportunities to feed. Verbena is also known to attract other pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, creating a lively and diverse garden ecosystem. Its adaptability and vibrant colors make it a valuable addition to any garden designed to attract and support pollinators.
Verbena thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering will promote more abundant blooming. Deadheading spent flowers is important to encourage continuous flowering. Verbena is a versatile plant that can be used in garden beds, containers, and hanging baskets.
Lavender
While often admired for its fragrance and calming properties, Lavender also holds a significant appeal for hummingbirds. The tall flower spikes, adorned with clusters of small purple flowers, offer a convenient feeding station. Its fragrant purple blooms are a true delight. The strong fragrance, beloved by humans, may also play a role in attracting hummingbirds.
Lavender prefers full sun and well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in hot, dry climates. Different Lavender species have varying levels of cold hardiness, so choose a variety that is suitable for your region. Lavender is a beautiful and beneficial addition to any hummingbird garden, offering both visual appeal and a source of nectar.
Buddleja (Butterfly Bush)
Though aptly named the Butterfly Bush, certain purple varieties of Buddleja also attract hummingbirds, providing a valuable source of nectar later in the season when other flowers may be fading. The long, cone-shaped flower clusters are packed with tiny blossoms, offering a plentiful supply of nectar. Look for deep purple varieties like ‘Black Knight’ or ‘Royal Red,’ which can also have a purplish hue. It’s crucial to be aware of the potential for invasiveness with Buddleja. Select sterile cultivars, like those in the ‘Pugster’ series, to prevent unwanted spread. They are a popular choice for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Butterfly Bush thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Pruning in early spring is essential to promote vigorous growth and abundant blooming. Despite its potential for invasiveness, the Butterfly Bush can be a valuable addition to a hummingbird garden if responsible cultivars are chosen.
Other Notable Purple Flowers
Beyond the flowers already mentioned, a myriad of other purple blossoms can entice hummingbirds to your garden. Iris, with their elegant blooms and vibrant colors, offer a touch of sophistication while providing nectar. Penstemon, known for its tubular flowers and extended bloom time, is another excellent choice. Foxglove (Digitalis), with its towering spires of bell-shaped flowers, adds a dramatic vertical element. Each of these flowers offers unique characteristics and contributes to the overall biodiversity and aesthetic appeal of your hummingbird garden.
Creating a Hummingbird-Friendly Purple Garden
Creating a haven for hummingbirds requires more than just planting a few purple flowers. Careful planning and attention to detail are essential to ensure that your garden provides a sustainable source of nectar and a safe environment for these tiny creatures.
Planting Tips
Sunlight is a crucial factor for the health and bloom production of most purple flowers. Ensure that your chosen varieties receive adequate sunlight, typically at least six hours per day. Soil drainage is equally important. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage and aeration. Consider the mature size of each plant and space them accordingly to allow for proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
Watering and Maintenance
Proper watering techniques are essential for the health and longevity of your purple flowers. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Deadheading spent flowers is crucial to encourage continuous blooming. Remove faded blossoms to prevent seed production and direct the plant’s energy towards producing more flowers. Fertilizing can promote abundant blooms, but use a balanced fertilizer sparingly. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Avoiding Pesticides
The use of pesticides in your hummingbird garden can have devastating consequences. Pesticides can harm hummingbirds directly or indirectly by killing the insects they rely on for protein. Opt for organic gardening practices, such as hand-picking pests and using natural pest control methods. Encourage beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on common garden pests.
Providing Other Resources
While nectar is the primary food source for hummingbirds, they also require other resources, such as water and shelter. Provide a bird bath or water feature where hummingbirds can bathe and drink. Choose a shallow dish with gently sloping sides to allow easy access. Trees and shrubs can provide shelter from predators and nesting sites.
Conclusion
The combination of vibrant purple flowers and the captivating presence of hummingbirds creates a truly magical experience. By planting a variety of purple flowers known to attract these tiny dynamos, you can transform your garden into a purple paradise, a sanctuary where these delicate creatures can thrive. Remember to consider the specific needs of each plant, provide adequate sunlight and water, avoid pesticides, and offer other resources, such as water and shelter. By creating a hummingbird-friendly purple garden, you will not only enhance the beauty of your outdoor space but also contribute to the conservation of these vital pollinators. The flight of a hummingbird is a fleeting moment of pure joy. By planting these purple blooms, you can help to keep these beautiful creatures returning year after year.
