Hummingbird Magnets

Attract these busy fliers with nectar-packed salvias.

- By Eva Monheim

Rufous hummingbird

MADE FOR EACH OTHER

A hummingbird's long tongue, which can extend to about twice the length of its bill, is perfectly adapted to salvia's long tubular flowers.

1 Hummingbird Falls Bodacious salvia

SALVIA X GUARANITICA, ZONES 7 TO 8 OR ANNUAL

Bodacious is one of the first salvias for hanging baskets. Its draping quality makes it a perfect spiller or ground cover. It reaches 2 feet tall while spreading up to 3 feet wide. The blossoms appear in spring and bloom continuously through fall in full sun to part shade. Use as an annual in cool climates.

Why we love it:

You'll easily spot visiting hummingbirds when this salvia is hung at eye level.

2 Rose Rhapsody Ballet meadow sage

SALVIA PRATENSIS, ZONES 3 TO 9

The soft pink blooms have a hooded appearance and make wonderful cut flowers. Rose Rhapsody welcomes deadheading in spring and can be easily divided to plant elsewhere in the garden. Grow in a spot with consistent moisture for best results. It has an upright form and attracts hummingbirds and bees, while also being deer resistant.

Why we love it:

The plant tolerates heat and humidity as well as a range of soils.

3 Heatwave Breeze salvia

SALVIA MICROPHYLLA X GREGGII, ZONES 6 TO 10 OR ANNUAL

This cultivar has an upright and rounded habit that reaches a height and width of 2 to 3 feet. The rich purple blooms welcome hummingbirds with their large tubular shape. After the first flush of blooms, trim the plant back to encourage even more flowers.

Why we love it: Developed as a water-wise plant, Breeze needs well-draining soil and tolerates drought.