As a horticulturist with a passion for attracting pollinators to gardens, I have spent considerable time studying the types of flowers that are most appealing to butterflies and hummingbirds. Both of these creatures are drawn to flowers with certain characteristics, such as bright colors, sweet nectar, and specific shapes that facilitate their feeding habits.

Butterflies are particularly attracted to flowers that are flat or have a landing platform, as this makes it easier for them to land and feed. They also prefer flowers with a strong scent, as this helps them locate the flowers from a distance. Some of the best flowers for attracting butterflies include:


1. Buddleia (Butterfly Bush) - Known for its long, tubular flowers that are perfect for butterflies to feed on.

2. Zinnias - These flowers come in a variety of bright colors that are very appealing to butterflies.

3. Lantana - With clusters of small, colorful flowers, lantana is a favorite among many butterfly species.

4. Monarda (Bee Balm) - The tubular flowers of monarda are not only attractive to butterflies but also to bees.

5. Swallowtail - This plant has flowers that are specifically designed to attract swallowtail butterflies.

Hummingbirds, on the other hand, are attracted to flowers with tubular shapes and bright red, orange, or pink colors, as these are the colors they are most sensitive to. They also prefer flowers that produce a lot of nectar. Some top choices for hummingbirds are:


1. Salvia (Sage) - The tubular flowers of salvia are a favorite among hummingbirds.

2. Trumpet Vine - With its tubular, brightly colored flowers, the trumpet vine is a hummingbird magnet.

3. Fuchsia - These flowers have a unique shape that is perfect for hummingbirds to feed on.

4. Red Hot Poker (Kniphofia) - The long, tubular flowers of the red hot poker are very attractive to hummingbirds.

5. Coral Bells (Heuchera) - While not as nectar-rich as some other options, the delicate shape and color of coral bells can still attract hummingbirds.

To create a garden that is attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds, it's best to plant a variety of these flowers to provide a continuous supply of nectar throughout the season.

read more >>

Plants that attract hummingbirdsAjuga.Bee balm.Begonia.Bleeding heart.Butterfly weed.Canna.Cardinal flower.Century plant.More items...read more >>