Attract hummingbirds, butterflies and bumble bees to your garden with these flowering bushes and trees that are attractive and easy to maintain.
In Northeast Florida, particularly Palm Coast, there are several bushes and trees that are known to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bumblebees to your garden. These plants provide nectar, shelter, and food sources for these pollinators. Here are some of the best options:
Firebush (Hamelia patens): This native shrub produces tubular red-orange flowers that are irresistible to hummingbirds and butterflies. It blooms from spring to fall and can reach a height of 6 to 12 feet. Firebush also attracts bumblebees and is a great addition to any wildlife garden.
Bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.): With its unique cylindrical red flowers resembling bottlebrushes, this evergreen shrub is highly attractive to hummingbirds. It also lures butterflies and bees. The bottlebrush blooms throughout the year, providing a continuous source of nectar and is easy to maintain. You can shape these to be a bush or tree.
Simpson's Stopper (Myrcianthes fragrans): This small, multi-stemmed tree boasts clusters of fragrant white flowers that attract both hummingbirds and butterflies. It produces red berries that are enjoyed by birds as well. Simpson's Stopper is a versatile choice, as it can be used as a specimen tree or pruned into a hedge.
Elderberry (Sambucus spp.): Elderberry bushes, particularly the American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), are known to attract a wide range of pollinators, including hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. In addition to its beautiful clusters of white flowers, elderberries also produce edible fruits that are popular with birds and wildlife.
Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana): This deciduous shrub is known for its striking clusters of bright purple berries that persist into the fall. The nectar-rich flowers of beautyberry attract butterflies, while the berries provide food for birds. It's a beautiful addition to any garden and can reach a height of 4 to 6 feet.
Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia): As a small tree or large shrub, the Red Buckeye produces showy red flowers that hummingbirds find irresistible. It's also a magnet for butterflies and provides an early source of nectar in the spring. The Red Buckeye thrives in shady or partially shaded areas.
Remember to provide a variety of plants with different blooming periods to ensure a continuous food source for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bumblebees throughout the year. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a haven for these delightful pollinators and enjoy their presence and beauty while they reward you with returning every season to feast in your garden.
