Wondering about which trees that attract hummingbirds to your garden? Once you’ve experienced the delight of seeing these tiny creatures darting around, it’s only natural to want them to visit more frequently. Their small size, rapid wingbeats, and ability to hover mid-air make them fascinating to watch. Hummingbirds bring a sense of life and wonder to any outdoor space.
To draw more of these lively birds, it’s important to plant the right trees and flowers that not only attract them but also keep them well-fed and coming back. Trees with tubular blossoms are especially appealing to hummingbirds, as their long, slender beaks are designed to reach deep into the flowers. Even if you have a smaller garden, there are many varieties that can still attract these colorful visitors.
Creating a garden filled with a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers is a great way to attract these nectar-loving birds to your yard.
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Do I Need Feeders to Attract Hummingbirds to My Garden?
While many people use hummingbird feeders to attract these tiny birds, are they really necessary? Feeders can be enjoyable, but the upkeep involved may not be for everyone. They require frequent cleanings and refills, especially in hot weather when nectar needs to be changed daily.
Don’t get me wrong—I’ve used hummingbird feeders myself, so I understand the effort that goes into maintaining them. However, an alternative to all that work is to let nature do the job for you. Planting the right flowers is a simple and natural way to attract hummingbirds to your garden.
Unlike feeders, plants require minimal upkeep while adding beauty to your garden. Plus, both hummingbirds and humans can appreciate them! From my own experience, I can confidently say that planting the right flowers is enough to bring hummingbirds to your garden.
I still remember the thrill of spotting my first hummingbird sipping nectar from the purple morning glories in my garden. It reminded me of childhood days spent on my grandmother’s porch, watching hummingbirds gather at her feeders.
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What Are the Top 10 Trees That Attract Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are highly prized visitors in the garden. These inquisitive little birds zip around from flower to flower in search of nectar. To make your garden more inviting, consider planting trees that attract hummingbirds. I’ve listed the top ten trees that will help attract these beautiful birds to your yard. Be sure to avoid using any chemicals on them to prevent accidentally harming the hummingbirds.
1. Tulip Tree (Liriodendron Tulipifera)
The tulip tree is one of the trees that attract hummingbirds to your garden and it features striking yellow and orange blossoms that bear a strong resemblance to actual tulips, giving the tree its name. Its leaves also share a similar shape with tulip flowers, adding to its unique appearance.
In addition to its beauty, the tulip tree can grow quite tall, making it a standout addition to any garden. These trees are also known for attracting hummingbirds due to their vibrant blooms and nectar.
• USDA Growing Zones: 4 through 9
• Size: 80 to 100 feet tall and 40 feet wide
• Exposure:Full to partial sun
2. Strawberry Tree (Arbutus Unedo)
Like other members of the Ericaceae family, the strawberry tree produces clusters of delicate, bell-shaped white flowers that add charm to any garden. These blooms are later replaced by eye-catching, round orange and red fruit, which not only enhance the tree’s aesthetic but also provide food for wildlife.
The strawberry tree is a favorite among hummingbirds and other pollinators, making it a wonderful addition to a bird-friendly landscape. Its evergreen foliage also offers year-round beauty and structure to your garden.
• USDA Growing Zones:8 through 10
• Size:8 to 30 feet tall and wide, depends on the variety
• Exposure:Full sun to partial shade
3. Silk Tree (Albizia Julibrissin)
The silk tree, known for its stunning abundance of pink blossoms resembling fluffy powder puffs, adds a whimsical touch to any garden. While it can be invasive or problematic in certain regions, it is remarkably resilient and can thrive in poor soil conditions.
This adaptability makes the silk tree a useful option for challenging landscapes. Additionally, the tree attracts various pollinators, including hummingbirds and bees, enhancing biodiversity in your garden. Its feathery foliage provides dappled shade, making it a lovely spot for relaxation during warmer months.
• USDA Growing Zones: 6-9
• Size:20 to 40 feet tall and wide, sometimes growing larger
• Exposure: Full sun
4. Red Buckeye (Aesculus Pavia)
This relative of the horse chestnut is also a favorite among hummingbirds. It can grow as either a small tree or a large shrub, providing versatility for various garden settings. However, it’s important to note that all parts of the tree are toxic, so caution is advised if you have pets or young children. Despite its poisonous nature, its vibrant blooms and attractive form make it a striking addition to any landscape, especially for attracting pollinators.
• USDA Growing Zones:5 through 9
• Size:Can be a shrub or small tree. Usually 10 to 25 feet tall and wide, but can grow over 30′ tall sometimes.
• Exposure: Full sun, part shade
5. Northern Catalpa (Catalpa Speciosa)
The northern catalpa produces large clusters of blossoms that resemble orchids, adding an exotic flair to the garden. This tree is also notable for its impressive foot-long leaves and elongated, bean-like fruit that can reach nearly two feet in length.
Additionally, consider planting the Southern catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides) to attract hummingbirds as well. Both species are excellent choices for creating a vibrant landscape while providing essential nectar for these beautiful birds. Their striking flowers and distinctive fruit make them stand out in any garden setting.
• USDA Growing Zones:4 through 8
• Size: 40 to 70 feet tall and 20 to 40 feet wide
• Exposure:Full sun
6. Horse Chestnut (Aesculus Hippocastanum)
Every spring, the horse chestnut showcases tall, upright clusters of white flowers, creating a stunning display. However, it can become invasive under certain growing conditions, so it’s wise to consult with your local horticulturist to determine if this is a concern in your area.
Consider planting Aesculus x carnea, a hybrid between the horse chestnut and red buckeye, which features beautiful pink flowers that also attract hummingbirds. Both varieties can enhance your garden while providing vital resources for local wildlife.
• USDA Growing Zones:4 through 7
• Size: 50 to 75 feet tall and 40 to 70 feet wide
• Exposure:Full sun
7. English Hawthorn (Crataegus Laevigata)
The blossoms on the English hawthorn can be found in either white or pink hues, adding charm to any landscape. Once pollinated, these flowers develop into vibrant red pome fruit, providing visual interest throughout the season.
Other species of Crataegus trees are also known to attract hummingbirds, making them a valuable addition to any bird-friendly garden. The combination of beautiful blooms and fruit makes the English hawthorn a stunning choice for enhancing biodiversity while supporting local wildlife.
• USDA Growing Zones:4-8
• Size:15 to 25 feet tall and wide
• Exposure: Full sun
8. Eucalyptus Trees
If you reside in a warmer climate, certain eucalyptus trees can provide stunning scarlet blossoms that are sure to attract hummingbirds. These vibrant flowers not only add a splash of color to your garden but also serve as a valuable nectar source for these birds.
Some eucalyptus species are adaptable and can thrive in slightly cooler temperatures, making them a versatile choice for various climates. Their unique foliage and striking blooms enhance the beauty of any landscape while supporting local wildlife.
• USDA Growing Zones: Varies by species, mostly in the warmer zones, with some as low as Zone 7.
• Size:Varies by species
• Exposure: Full sun
9. Eastern Redbud (Cercis Canadensis)
This is one of the earliest plants to bloom each year, covering its branches with delicate pink flowers that stand out even more since they appear before the heart-shaped leaves. One distinctive cultivar is called ‘Forest Pansy,’ which produces striking purple foliage.
The western redbud is not only visually appealing but also serves as a wonderful option among trees that attract hummingbirds, drawing these beautiful birds with its vibrant blooms. Its early flowers provide an important nectar source in spring, enhancing your garden’s biodiversity.
• USDA Growing Zones: 4 to 9
• Size: 20 to 30 feet tall and 25 to 35 feet wide
• Exposure: Full sun-part shade
10. Crabapples (Malus spp)
Spring crabapple trees burst into bloom in stunning shades of white, red, and pink, making them a beautiful addition to any landscape. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these trees are among the trees that attract hummingbirds, providing nectar during the blooming season.
Also, crabapples can also pollinate most varieties of apple trees within a certain radius, benefiting both you and your neighbors by enhancing fruit production. This dual-purpose tree offers both visual beauty and practical advantages for your garden and the community.
• USDA Growing Zones:2 to 11, depending on cultivar
• Size:Depends on cultivar
• Exposure: Full sun
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Final Thoughts
Planting trees that attract hummingbirds into your garden not only enhances its beauty but also creates a vibrant ecosystem that supports these lovely birds. By selecting a diverse range of trees, from the striking blossoms of the tulip tree to the early blooms of the western redbud, you can provide essential nectar sources that will keep hummingbirds returning year after year.