Flowers for Hummingbirds in Maryland

Annuals

• Annuals are plants that live one season and must be replanted each year. Brighten your landscape and provide nectar for hummingbirds by planting flowering annuals around borders and shrubs. When possible, space flowers apart to provide room for hummingbirds to hover around the flowers. Some nectar-producing annuals that do well in Maryland include zinnia, snapdragon, scarlet sage and jewelweed.

Perennials

• Perennials are plants that grow back from root stock year after year. Bee balm (bergamot) and cardinal flower are two species native to Maryland that are highly favored by hummingbirds. Indian pink, wild columbine and phlox are other candidates for a hummingbird garden. Try growing vines, such as trumpet creeper, coral honeysuckle and passion flower, on fences or trellises to provide height to your garden.

Shrubs

• Flowering shrubs are a source of both nectar and insects for hummingbirds. In addition, shrubs provide cover for hummingbirds to help shield them from predators. Some flowering shrubs that grow well in Maryland include rhododendron, azalea, sweet pepperbush and rose of Sharon.

Trees

• Ruby-throated hummingbirds nest in wooded areas, so place your garden on a woodland border or near a few large trees in your yard. The tulip poplar is a flowering tree that provides both shelter and nectar for hummingbirds. Other trees known to attract hummingbirds include the buckeye, horse chestnut and eastern redbud.