Upward Blooms: Native Vines Hummingbirds Can’t Resist
Humminbird relaxing in a nest.
👋Well, hello there, and welcome back to my series on native plants that attract hummingbirds. I hope you had a relaxing week that included a hummingbird sighting or two. This week, we soar to new heights with native perennial vines that offer not only vertical beauty but also vital nectar sources for our beloved hummingbirds. From the captivating blooms of Coral Honeysuckle to the exotic allure of Passionflower, these vines are perfect for adding dimension and dynamic appeal to your garden. So without further ado, here are 5 flowering vines that add character to your garden and support our tiniest feathered friends. Please note: all of these plants were verified native plants to Hanover, Virginia, and/or the Richmond, VA area via the Digital Atlas of the Virginia Flora.
1. Lonicera sempervirens
(Coral Honeysuckle)
Coral Honeysuckle is a true gem for any hummingbird garden. This fast-growing vine features tubular red to orange flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. Unlike its invasive cousins, this native variety is well-behaved and provides a continuous source of nectar for hummingbirds. It’s also evergreen to semi-evergreen in southern climates, ensuring year-round interest. Deer may browse this plant.
Bloom Time: Spring/Summer
Moist Well-drained soil; Clay Tolerant
Height: 10 ft. 0 in. - 20 ft. 0 in.
Width: 3 ft. 0 in. - 6 ft. 0 in.
Sun Requirements: full sun/part shade
2. Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower/Maypop)
Passionflower is an enchanting vine with intricate, lavender/purple flowers that can truly be described as works of art. Blooming from early summer to fall, the Passionflower supports not only hummingbirds but also a variety of pollinators. Its edible fruit, the Maypop, is a bonus, ripening in late summer to early fall. I planted one of these last season, but it did not flower for me. Fingers crossed for stunning blooms this year. 🤞
Bloom Time: Summer/Fall
Moist, Well-Drained Soil; Clay Tolerant
Height: 12-25 feet
Sun Requirements: Full Sun/Part Shade
3. Bignonia capreolata (Crossvine)
Crossvine is a robust climber with trumpet-shaped flowers that range from yellow to red, creating a striking display in spring. This vine is particularly tough, able to thrive in a variety of soil conditions and even in part shade. In the wild, it’s often found climbing pine trees. Hummingbirds are attracted to its vibrant blooms, which provide plentiful nectar.
Bloom Time: Late Winter/Early Spring
Moist Well-drained soil
Height: 30-50 feet
Sun requirements: full sun/part shade
4. Campsis radicans (Trumpet Creeper Vine)
Trumpet Vine, with its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers, is a magnet for hummingbirds. The flowers, ranging in color from yellow to bright red, bloom throughout the summer months, offering abundant nectar. While this vine is vigorous and can spread extensively, careful placement (not near your house) and management can make it a stunning addition to your garden.
Bloom Time: Summer/Fall
Moist, Well-drained soil; clay tolerant
Size: 7 ft wide and 30+ feet tall
Sun Requirements: Full sun/part shade
5. Gelsemium sempervirens (Carolina Jessamine)
For those who missed our first post, we highlighted semi-evergreen, Carolina Jessamine, displayed at the Hanover Master Gardeners Horticultural Learning Center. This vine, with its cheerful yellow flowers, is another hummingbird favorite and perfect for those looking to expand their collection of hummingbird-friendly plants.
Bloom Time: Spring/Fall
Moist Well-drained soil; Likes rich organic matter
Height: 10-30 Feet
Sun Requirements: full sun/part shade
Native vines not only elevate the aesthetic of any garden but also play a crucial role in supporting local wildlife, particularly hummingbirds. By choosing these native options, you’re not only beautifying your space but also contributing to the biodiversity and ecological health of your area. Stay tuned for next week’s installment, where I’ll explore more ways to attract these fascinating birds to your garden with the use of shrubs.
As always, feel free to reach out with your burning gardening questions. 🔥
Keep Blooming,
Nicole Dillon
Breemar Flower Farm | Ashland, VA
