Do Hummingbirds Like Hydrangeas: Yes, 5 Species!
Yes, hummingbirds like hydrangeas.
These flowering shrubs provide valuable nectar for hummingbirds, giving them a daily source of food.
Hummingbirds are primarily attracted to brightly colored, tubular-shaped flowers that provide ample nectar.
Hydrangeas, with their large, colorful blooms, provide a visually appealing source of food for these small birds.
In addition, the large blooms of hydrangeas offer hummingbirds a place to perch and rest as they feed.
Hydrangeas are a popular choice for gardeners looking to attract hummingbirds. Not only do they provide a source of nectar, but their beautiful and vibrant blooms create a stunning addition to any garden.
When paired with other plants, hydrangeas create a welcoming habitat that hummingbirds are sure to enjoy.
5 Hummingbirds Species Like Hydrangeas
Hummingbird Species | Attraction to Hydrangeas | Reasons |
Ruby-throated | Yes | The nectar from the flowers provides energy. Hydrangeas also attract insects which hummingbirds eat. |
Black-chinned | Yes | They are attracted to the bright colors of hydrangea and its nectar. |
Anna’s | Yes | The large flowers provide shelter from predators, the nectar provides nutrition. |
Costa’s | Yes | Hydrangeas are nectar-rich which is an important energy source for this species. |
Rufous | Yes | Hydrangeas attract plenty of insects, providing a good food source for this species. |
Key Takeaway
Five Facts About: Hummingbirds’ Preference for Hydrangeas
DID YOU KNOW
It has been estimated that hummingbirds consume over 5 times their body weight in nectar each day, making the hydrangea an ideal source of sustenance for these birds.
What Makes Hydrangeas Attractive to Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to the bright colors and nectar-rich blooms of hydrangeas. These gorgeous flowering plants are a favorite among gardeners and hummingbirds alike.
Hydrangeas are attractive to hummingbirds because they offer a tasty reward after a long flight. The cluster of blooms has a wealth of nectar, providing much-needed energy for the bird’s flight.
Additionally, hydrangeas are a great source of natural food for hummingbirds, providing them with sugars and proteins that help their bodies grow and develop.
Hydrangeas also provide a safe place for hummingbirds to perch and forage for food. The bush’s thick foliage serves as excellent cover from predators, and when the blooms are in full bloom, the colors are strikingly bright and noticeable from far away.
In addition to this, the flowers produce a sweet scent that entices hummingbirds to visit and feed from them.
Lastly, hydrangeas are low maintenance and require minimal care. This makes them an ideal plant for birdwatchers as well as gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds to their gardens.
With just a little bit of upkeep, these plants can thrive and keep hummingbirds returning to your garden year after year.
What Kind of Nectar Do Hydrangeas Provide?
Hydrangeas are a type of flowering shrub that produces a variety of colorful blooms. These blooms can be used to make a variety of different drinks and foods, including nectar.
The type of nectar that Hydrangea provides depends on the variety of Hydrangea and the geographic location it is growing.
Generally, Hydrangeas provide two types of nectar: sucrose and fructose. Sucrose is a type of sugar that is found in most flowers, such as roses and lilies.
Fructose is a type of sugar found in some fruits and is usually sweeter than sucrose. In addition to these two sugars, many Hydrangeas also contain amino acids which are essential for good health.
The amount of nectar produced by a Hydrangea also depends on the type of Hydrangea and the geographic location it growing. I
n the United States, Hydrangeas typically produce more nectar in warmer, humid climates, such as the southeastern or Gulf Coast states.
In cooler climates, such as the central, northern, or mountainous regions, Hydrangeas produce less nectar.
In conclusion, the type and amount of nectar produced by a Hydrangea depend on the type of Hydrangea and the geographic location it is growing.
Generally, Hydrangeas provide two types of nectar: sucrose and fructose, and more nectar are produced in warmer climates.
What Varieties of Hydrangeas Are Best for Attracting Hummingbirds?
Hummingbirds are attracted to certain varieties of hydrangeas for their abundance of colorful nectar-rich blooms.
The best varieties for attracting hummingbirds include:
Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens): This is a large flower that produces many clusters of white or pink flowers. Smooth hydrangeas are very popular in hummingbird gardens because they bloom from mid-summer to fall, providing a reliable source of nectar for the birds.
Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris): This is a climbing vine with large clusters of white, pink, or blue flowers that attract many species of hummingbirds. The flowers form in late spring and last until late summer.
Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): This deciduous shrub has large, showy clusters of white flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers of oakleaf hydrangeas are very attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata): This is a very popular flowering shrub that blooms in summer and fall. The flowers are white, pink, or purple and are very attractive to hummingbirds.
In addition to these varieties, there are many other species and cultivars of hydrangeas that attract hummingbirds.
Regardless of the type of hydrangea, planting them in full sun with good draining soil will ensure the best results for attracting hummingbirds.
What Types of Other Flowers Complement Hydrangeas for Hummingbird Habitats?
Creating a hummingbird habitat in your garden that includes hydrangeas is a great way to attract these beautiful birds.
However, to ensure that the hummingbirds stay in your garden and have a variety of food sources, it is important to include other types of flowers that complement hydrangeas.
Here are some great options for other flowers that attract hummingbirds and look great when planted alongside hydrangeas:
- Columbine: The brightly colored flowers of columbine attract hummingbirds, as well as butterflies. The trumpet-shaped blooms in a variety of colors will add a splash of brightness to your garden.
- Bee Balm: This is a classic choice for hummingbird habitats. The bright red flowers of bee balm are eye-catching and the sweet nectar it produces is a favorite of hummingbirds.
- Foxglove: Hummingbirds are drawn to long, tubular-shaped flowers like foxgloves. These flowers come in a range of vibrant colors and are easy to grow.
- Salvia: Salvia is another attractive choice for hummingbird gardens. The bright purple flowers of salvia will add color and attract hummingbirds.
These flowers will all make great additions to your hummingbird habitat and will look lovely planted alongside hydrangeas.
How Do Hummingbirds Use Hydrangeas to Feed?
Hummingbirds are drawn to hydrangeas for their nectar. Hydrangeas are a popular ornamental shrub with large clusters of beautiful, colorful flowers that can be seen in many gardens.
Hummingbirds use the nectar from hydrangeas to nourish themselves and to produce energy as they fly.
Hummingbirds rely on the nectar from hydrangeas to sustain their energy throughout the day. While they can feed on the nectar of other flowers, hydrangeas are among the richest in nectar and provide the most sustenance for the birds.
Hydrangeas also typically bloom during the summer months which makes them a reliable source of nutrition for the birds.
Hummingbirds feed on the nectar from hydrangeas in a few different ways. They can sip directly from the flowers, or use their long beaks to get to the nectar at the bottom of the flower. They can also hover over the plant and eat from the center of the flower.
In addition to providing the hummingbirds with nectar, the hydrangeas also offer the birds shelter from the elements and predators.
The large clusters of flowers form a canopy for the birds and provide them with cover from the sun, wind, and rain. They also offer a place to rest and hide from predators.
Hummingbirds use hydrangeas to feed and provide them with shelter, making them an ideal ornamental shrub for any garden. By planting hydrangeas, you can help to provide sustenance and shelter to these amazing birds.
Are There Other Benefits to Planting Hydrangeas for Hummingbirds?
Yes, there are other great benefits to planting hydrangeas for hummingbirds beyond providing food for them.
Hydrangeas not only provide a valuable source of nectar for hummingbirds to enjoy, but they also offer other benefits to the environment.
Some of the other benefits of planting hydrangeas for hummingbirds include:
- Offering shelter – Hydrangeas are densely packed with leaves, making them an ideal shelter for hummingbirds to hide in.
- Enhancing beauty – Hydrangeas are known for their beautiful flowers and can add a vibrant splash of color to any garden or yard.
- Providing food for other creatures – Not only do hummingbirds benefit from the nectar of hydrangeas, but other animals, such as butterflies and bees, can also benefit from the nectar.
- Conserving water – Hydrangeas are very low-maintenance plants, so they require little water to maintain their health.
Planting hydrangeas for hummingbirds provide a great way to help the environment, while also providing a beautiful addition to any garden or yard.
Not only will they provide a valuable source of food for hummingbirds, but they can also offer shelter and food for other creatures, conserve water, and add beauty to your landscape.
What Should Gardeners Know About Planting Hydrangeas to Attract Hummingbirds?
Hydrangeas are a beautiful addition to any garden and can be especially attractive to hummingbirds.
To ensure that your hydrangeas are an inviting habitat for hummingbirds, there are a few key considerations that gardeners should be aware of.
Hummingbirds prefer to feed in sunny spots, and hydrangeas need at least six hours of sun each day.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your garden is an inviting habitat for hummingbirds. The bright colors and abundant nectar of your hydrangeas will be sure to attract hummingbirds, making your garden even more beautiful.
FAQ of Do Hummingbirds Like Hydrangeas
Do hummingbirds feed on hydrangeas?
Yes, hummingbirds feed on the nectar of hydrangeas.
Are hydrangeas attractive to hummingbirds?
Yes, hummingbirds are attracted to the bright colors and fragrant flowers of hydrangeas.
What is the best type of hydrangea for attracting hummingbirds?
Bigleaf hydrangeas are the best type of hydrangea for attracting hummingbirds.
Are there any specific colors of hydrangeas that hummingbirds like more?
Hummingbirds are particularly attracted to pink and purple varieties of hydrangeas.
Is there anything else hummingbirds like to feed on besides hydrangeas?
Besides hydrangeas, hummingbirds also feed on nectar from other flowering plants like lilies, petunias, and daisies. They may also feed on small insects and spiders.
Conclusion
Hummingbirds are strongly drawn to hydrangeas because of their nectar-rich blooms, making them a popular choice for any gardener looking to attract these beautiful birds.
As long as the hydrangeas are planted in a climate suitable for them and are accompanied by other hummingbird-friendly plants, the birds will be sure to visit the garden.