Flowers for hummingbirds work best when they offer nectar across the season, with tubular blooms and colors such as red attracting attention. My best overall pick is Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix, which combines 23 annual and perennial species for a broader planting than a single-flower packet. Cardinal flower seeds stand out for gardeners who want a vivid, focused planting, while trumpet vine seeds suit those with room for a vigorous climber. The main tradeoffs are bloom variety versus a specific flower, and compact plantings versus plants that can spread or need support. Read on for how the 13 options compare and which fits your garden.
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Key Takeaways
- The 23-species Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix offers the broadest stated mix of annual and perennial flowers, while single-species seeds give gardeners more control over the planting.
- Cardinal flower is the clearest focused choice for red blooms; it does not offer the variety or extended mix of a wildflower packet.
- Trumpet vine seeds promise a climbing habit and need more space planning than the seed mixes or compact bulb plantings.
- Allium and crocus bulbs add distinct seasonal blooms, but several bulb picks share a similar role and are less suited to anyone seeking a season-long nectar source on their own.
- Seed counts and packet sizes vary widely, but they do not by themselves indicate bloom duration, regional fit, or how much usable garden coverage to expect.
| Star of Persia Allium (Christophii) Flower Bulbs, 5 Bulbs |  | Best for Sculptural Blooms | Bulb count: 5 | Bulb size: 10/12 cm | Bloom color: Pale amethyst-violet with silver highlights | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bentley Pollinator Wildflower Seed Mix, 25 Pre-Filled Packets |  | Best for Garden Favors | Brand: Bentley Seed Co. | Number of packets: 25 | Seeds per packet: 210–220 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hummingbird Trumpet Vine Seeds, 300 Count |  | Best for Vertical Coverage | Seed count: 300 | Flower color: Bright orange-red | Flower shape: Trumpet-shaped | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Ruby Giant Species Crocus Bulbs, 25-Pack |  | Best for Early Spring Color | Quantity: 25 bulbs | Bulb size: 5/7 cm | Bloom season: Spring | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix, 1 Ounce, 7,500+ Seeds, 23 Annual and Perennial Species |  | Best for Broad-Area Planting | Seed quantity: Over 7,500 | Packet size: 1 ounce | Coverage: About 100 square feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 45-Piece Perennial Hummingbird Mint Flower Seed Mix |  | Best for a Sunny, Drought-Tolerant Border | Seed quantity: 45 seeds | Plant type: Perennial flowers | Sun exposure: Full sun | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Flower Seed Mix, 1 Ounce |  | Best Value for Broad Garden Coverage | Brand: Seed Needs | Package size: 1 ounce | Seed quantity: Thousands of seeds | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb |  | Best for a Tall, Dramatic Accent | Quantity: 1 bulb | Bulb size: 18/20 cm | Flower color: Purple | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Purple Sensation Allium Flower Bulbs, 5 Bulbs |  | Best Allium Pack for a Grouped Display | Quantity: 5 bulbs | Bulb size: 12/14 cm | Flower color: Purple | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Madame Galen Trumpet Vine Seeds, Non-GMO Heirloom Flower Seeds |  | Best for a Long Summer-to-Fall Hummingbird Display | Plant type: Madame Galen trumpet vine | Flower color: Deep orange to salmon-red | Maximum height: Up to 25 feet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SunHaven Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Wildflower Mix, 30,000+ Seeds, 1 oz |  | Best for Compact Pollinator Beds | Seed count: 30,000+ | Package weight: 1 oz | Coverage: Up to 100 sq ft | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Non-GMO Seeds, 18 Varieties |  | Best for Large Garden Coverage | Seed count: 25,000 | Varieties: 18 | Seed type: Non-GMO | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds, Red Lobelia cardinalis |  | Best for Moist, Partly Shaded Gardens | Quantity: 100 seeds | Plant type: Perennial | Hardiness zones: 2–9 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| flowers for hummingbird | Sun exposure |
|---|---|
| Star of Persia Allium | Full sun to partial shade |
| Bentley Pollinator Wildflower | — |
| Hummingbird Trumpet Vine Seeds | — |
| Ruby Giant Species Crocus Bulb | Full sun to partial shade |
| Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and | — |
| 45-Piece Perennial Hummingbird | Full sun |
| Seed Needs Hummingbird and But | — |
| Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb | Full sun to partial shade |
| Purple Sensation Allium Flower | Full sun to partial shade |
| Madame Galen Trumpet Vine Seed | — |
| SunHaven Seeds Butterfly and H | Full sun |
| Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix | Full sun |
| 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Star of Persia Allium (Christophii) Flower Bulbs, 5 Bulbs
I’d choose Star of Persia Allium when the garden needs distinctive blooms as well as pollinator appeal. Its pale amethyst-violet flower heads, edged in silver and reaching 8–12 inches across, make a more architectural display than the small spring flowers of Ruby Giant Species Crocus. The five bulbs suit a sunny or partly shaded bed, and the plants can return as perennializing bulbs. The tradeoff for hummingbird gardeners is that the listing mentions pollinators generally but does not specifically say hummingbirds are attracted to this allium. Its 18–32-inch height also calls for space among lower plants. I’d treat it as a striking supporting flower, rather than the most direct choice for someone prioritizing documented hummingbird appeal.
Pros:- Large 8–12-inch spherical blooms create a pronounced garden focal point
- Grows in full sun to partial shade
- Perennializing bulbs can return in suitable conditions
- Flowers can be used in cut or dried arrangements
Cons:- The product description does not specifically identify hummingbirds as a visitor
- Five bulbs offer less coverage than the broad-area wildflower seed mixes
- Its 18–32-inch mature height needs room among shorter plants
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 4–8 who want large ornamental flower heads and a perennial bulb display alongside other pollinator plants
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a flower specifically described as attracting hummingbirds or a low-growing option for a tight border
- Bulb count:5
- Bulb size:10/12 cm
- Bloom color:Pale amethyst-violet with silver highlights
- Bloom size:8–12 inches
- Mature height:18–32 inches
- USDA hardiness zones:4–8
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Moisture needs:Moderate watering
Our verdict“Choose this allium for dramatic, reusable blooms in a pollinator garden, but pair it with flowers whose hummingbird appeal is more directly specified.”
Bentley Pollinator Wildflower Seed Mix, 25 Pre-Filled Packets
Bentley Pollinator Wildflower Seed Mix is the clearest fit here for someone who wants small, shareable planting gifts: its 25 packets each contain 210–220 seeds and are designed with space for a personal message. That format is easier to distribute than the single large packet of Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix, which is aimed at covering one broader area. Bentley’s listing names hummingbirds among the intended pollinators, but it does not identify the flower species, so I can’t judge bloom shape or which plants may suit them best. Each packet covers about 10 square feet, adding up to useful planting potential if recipients have sunny outdoor space. The stated summer planting and bloom timing narrows flexibility, and full sun is required.
Pros:- Twenty-five packets make distribution or gifting straightforward
- Each packet is listed to cover approximately 10 square feet
- Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies are named as intended pollinators
- Non-GMO seeds and packets made in the USA
Cons:- The flower species and proportions are not specified
- The mix is listed for full sun, limiting placement options
- Summer is given for both planting and expected bloom period
Best for: Hosts, school groups, or garden clubs who want individually packaged pollinator seeds to hand out to recipients with sunny outdoor planting space
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking named flower varieties, shade-friendly planting, or a mix with a clearly stated species list
- Brand:Bentley Seed Co.
- Number of packets:25
- Seeds per packet:210–220
- Coverage per packet:Approximately 10 square feet
- Plant type:Wildflower
- GMO status:GMO-free
- Sunlight exposure:Full sun
- Expected bloom period:Summer
Our verdict“Pick Bentley for individually packaged pollinator seed gifts, provided recipients can plant outdoors in full sun and accept an unspecified flower mix.”
Hummingbird Trumpet Vine Seeds, 300 Count
For a fence, arbor, or trellis that could carry a climbing flower, I’d put Hummingbird Trumpet Vine Seeds ahead of low-growing Ruby Giant Species Crocus. The bright orange-red, trumpet-shaped blooms are a direct match for this roundup’s hummingbird focus, and the perennial vine can return once established. A 300-seed count gives plenty to work with, though the listing does not state how many plants that will produce or how quickly they will cover a structure. The main commitment is vertical space: this is not a contained bulb display like Star of Persia Allium, and it needs support to climb. Establishment is another uncertainty, since repeat growth depends on the vine taking hold. I’d choose it for a dedicated structure, not a small bed without room to spread upward.
Pros:- Trumpet-shaped orange-red blooms are specifically presented for hummingbirds
- Attracts butterflies and other pollinators as well
- Climbing habit can cover vertical garden structures
- Perennial growth can return after establishment
Cons:- Requires a fence, trellis, arbor, or another support
- Perennial return depends on successful establishment
- The listing does not specify mature size, hardiness zone, or flowering period
Best for: Gardeners with a sturdy fence, trellis, arbor, or garden wall who want orange-red trumpet blooms and a perennial climbing plant
Not ideal for: Small-space gardeners without a support structure or buyers who want a compact, predictable bulb planting
- Seed count:300
- Flower color:Bright orange-red
- Flower shape:Trumpet-shaped
- Plant type:Hardy perennial climbing vine
- Attracts:Hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Suggested uses:Fences, trellises, arbors, and garden walls
Our verdict“Choose this vine if you have a support structure and want a climbing flower specifically described as attracting hummingbirds.”
Ruby Giant Species Crocus Bulbs, 25-Pack
Ruby Giant Species Crocus brings pollinator flowers to the garden in spring, earlier than the summer-blooming period listed for Bentley Pollinator Wildflower Seed Mix. Its 25 violet-purple and white bulbs are a useful choice for naturalizing, with the potential to multiply over time. At just 3–6 inches tall, crocuses suit low borders and open spaces where a climbing vine like Hummingbird Trumpet Vine would be impractical. The seasonal tradeoff is clear: these are early flowers, not a long-season display, and the listing says they attract pollinators generally rather than identifying hummingbirds specifically. They also need moist, well-draining soil and suitable sun. I’d choose them to extend spring color and pollinator activity, while relying on other flowers for a more targeted hummingbird planting.
Pros:- Early spring flowering adds color before summer seed mixes bloom
- Twenty-five bulbs can be planted across a small area
- Can naturalize and multiply over time
- Listed as deer and squirrel resistant
Cons:- The listing identifies pollinators generally, not hummingbirds specifically
- Requires moist, well-draining soil and suitable sun exposure
- Its 3–6-inch height and spring season limit its role in taller or later displays
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 3–8 who want low-growing spring bulbs that may naturalize in a sunny or partly shaded bed
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking summer-long flowers or a variety specifically described as attracting hummingbirds
- Quantity:25 bulbs
- Bulb size:5/7 cm
- Bloom season:Spring
- Flower color:Violet-purple and white
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Moist, well-draining
- USDA hardiness zone:3–8
- Mature height:3–6 inches
Our verdict“Choose Ruby Giant for low spring color and potential naturalizing, then add other flowers for hummingbird-specific appeal later in the season.”
Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix, 1 Ounce, 7,500+ Seeds, 23 Annual and Perennial Species
Among these five options, Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix offers the broadest stated coverage: over 7,500 seeds across 23 annual and perennial species, intended for about 100 square feet. That makes it more suited to filling a larger patch than Bentley Pollinator Wildflower Seed Mix, whose 25 smaller packets are better for sharing or dividing among separate sites. Hummingbirds are named in the mix’s intended audience, and the annual and perennial blend offers more variety than a single climbing vine. The tradeoff is limited planting detail: the species and proportions are not listed, so buyers can’t select for particular bloom shapes or plan a precise sequence of flowers. A reusable zipper and planting instructions help with storage and setup, but the packet does not state a germination rate.
Pros:- Over 7,500 seeds are listed for about 100 square feet of coverage
- Includes 23 annual and perennial species
- Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other wildlife are named as intended visitors
- Packet includes planting instructions and a reusable zipper
Cons:- The flower varieties and their proportions are not specified
- No specific germination rate is provided
- A single broad-coverage packet is less convenient to distribute than Bentley’s 25 individual packets
Best for: Gardeners who want to sow a large sunny or open planting area with a mixed annual and perennial seed blend intended for hummingbirds and butterflies
Not ideal for: Buyers who need named flower varieties, known species proportions, or a specific germination rate before planting
- Seed quantity:Over 7,500
- Packet size:1 ounce
- Coverage:About 100 square feet
- Species:23 annual and perennial species
- Packaging:Reusable zipper with planting instructions
- Intended pollinators:Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees
- Germination guarantee:Refund within 30 days if seeds do not germinate
Our verdict“Choose this mix for a large, varied pollinator planting if you are comfortable sowing without a named species list or stated germination rate.”
45-Piece Perennial Hummingbird Mint Flower Seed Mix
I’d choose this perennial hummingbird mint mix for a sunny border where returning plants and lower watering needs matter. Its flower spikes are described as attracting hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators, while established plants tolerate drought. That makes it a more focused, repeat-season choice than Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Flower Seed Mix, which offers thousands of seeds and a wider annual-and-perennial mix but calls for daily watering during establishment. The tradeoff here is scale: 45 seeds give me less coverage, and they need light and steady moisture to germinate. Sow them on the soil surface after the last spring frost, and reserve a reliably sunny spot with well-draining soil. This pick suits gardeners willing to tend the seedlings for a longer-lasting border.
Pros:- Perennial flowers can return in later growing seasons
- Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Established plants tolerate drought and need minimal watering
- Flower spikes suit borders and cut flowers
Cons:- Only 45 seeds, limiting the area this pack can cover
- Needs consistent moisture until germination
- Seeds require light, so they must be sown on the soil surface
Best for: Gardeners planting a sunny pollinator border who can keep seedlings moist and want drought-tolerant established plants
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking quick, broad coverage from a large seed quantity or unable to water during germination
- Seed quantity:45 seeds
- Plant type:Perennial flowers
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Soil:Moist, well-draining
- Sowing time:After the last spring frost
- Uses:Borders, cut flowers, pollinator gardens
Our verdict“Choose this mix for a sunny, longer-term pollinator border if you can tend its surface-sown seedlings through germination.”
Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Flower Seed Mix, 1 Ounce
For gardeners who want to sow a broad area, I’d favor this one-ounce mix with thousands of seeds over the 45-seed Perennial Hummingbird Mint mix. The variety includes cosmos, snapdragons, butterfly milkweed, and scarlet salvia, with annual and perennial flowers intended to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. That range gives a planting more variety than the mint mix, though only a few varieties are perennial or tender perennial, so it is less suited to a border built around dependable returns. Daily watering during establishment is another real commitment. Scatter the seeds on the surface, press them into place, and provide sunshine. The tear-resistant, moisture-resistant packaging is useful for storage, but the large seed count still calls for space and a plan for managing a varied planting.
Pros:- Thousands of seeds provide broad planting coverage
- Mix includes annual and perennial varieties such as cosmos, snapdragons, and scarlet salvia
- Intended to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and ladybugs
- Tear-resistant, moisture-resistant packaging aids seed storage
Cons:- Only a few varieties are perennial or tender perennial
- Needs daily watering during establishment
- A large mixed sowing may be harder to keep organized than a small, focused planting
Best for: Gardeners sowing a large sunny patch who want many flower varieties and can water daily while seeds establish
Not ideal for: Gardeners who want a mostly perennial planting or prefer a small, controlled number of plants
- Brand:Seed Needs
- Package size:1 ounce
- Seed quantity:Thousands of seeds
- Seed type:Annual and perennial wildflowers
- Included varieties:Cosmos, snapdragons, butterfly milkweed, and scarlet salvia
- Intended pollinators:Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and ladybugs
- Planting instructions:Scatter on soil surface, press into place, water daily, and provide sunshine
- GMO status:No knowingly supplied GMO-based seeds
Our verdict“Pick this mix for broad, varied coverage if you have room to sow it and can keep the seedlings watered.”
Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb
I’d use the Gladiator allium as a tall visual accent in a mixed pollinator garden, rather than relying on it as the main hummingbird planting. One 18/20 cm bulb produces a purple bloom 6–8 inches across and a plant 36–60 inches tall. Those dimensions give it more vertical impact than the shorter Purple Sensation Allium Flower Bulbs, which come five to a pack and reach 24–36 inches. The larger Gladiator bloom comes with a clear tradeoff: one bulb creates a single focal point, not a clustered display. It attracts pollinators, but the supplied details do not specifically name hummingbirds, so I’d pair it with flowers explicitly intended for them. Full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil are listed; unsuitable drainage can make this a poor fit.
Pros:- Large 6–8-inch purple blooms create a prominent garden accent
- Reaches 36–60 inches tall
- Attracts pollinators and suits cut flowers
- Listed as perennializing and naturalizing
Cons:- Pack contains only one bulb
- Listed pollinator attraction does not specifically confirm hummingbirds
- Needs moist, well-draining soil and suitable growing conditions
Best for: Gardeners in zones 4–8 who want one tall, large-flowered purple accent among other pollinator plants
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking multiple plants for a dense display or a flower specifically described as attracting hummingbirds
- Quantity:1 bulb
- Bulb size:18/20 cm
- Flower color:Purple
- Bloom size:6–8 inches in diameter
- Blooming period:Late spring to early summer
- Mature height:36–60 inches
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- USDA hardiness zones:4–8
- Soil:Moist, well-draining
Our verdict“Choose Gladiator for one tall, showy allium accent, and pair it with flowers that specifically target hummingbirds.”
Purple Sensation Allium Flower Bulbs, 5 Bulbs
If I wanted several alliums grouped together, I’d choose Purple Sensation’s five-bulb pack over the single Gladiator bulb. These bulbs produce purple flowerheads about 4–5 inches wide and reach 24–36 inches, giving a lower, more repeated display than Gladiator’s lone 6–8-inch bloom on a much taller stem. The pack quantity favors planting a cluster, but the flowers are still alliums, described as attracting pollinators rather than hummingbirds specifically. For a roundup focused on hummingbirds, I’d treat them as supporting garden color and add a direct nectar draw such as trumpet vine. Purple Sensation also needs moist, well-drained soil and is suited to USDA zones 4–8. Its listing says fall for both planting and blooming, so check local planting guidance before scheduling the bulbs.
Pros:- Five bulbs allow a grouped planting rather than a single accent
- Dense purple flowerheads measure about 4–5 inches wide
- Moderate 24–36-inch height fits below taller alliums such as Gladiator
- Listed as perennializing and suitable for cut flowers
Cons:- Pollinator attraction is listed generally, without specific confirmation of hummingbirds
- Requires moist, well-drained soil
- Suited to USDA zones 4–8
Best for: Gardeners in zones 4–8 who want a group of mid-height purple alliums to complement hummingbird-focused flowers
Not ideal for: Gardeners who need a plant specifically described as attracting hummingbirds or who lack well-drained soil
- Quantity:5 bulbs
- Bulb size:12/14 cm
- Flower color:Purple
- Flowerhead width:4–5 inches
- Mature height:24–36 inches
- USDA hardiness zones:4–8
- Sun exposure:Full sun to partial shade
- Planting period:Fall
Our verdict“Choose this pack for a shorter cluster of purple alliums, while using another flower as the direct hummingbird draw.”
Madame Galen Trumpet Vine Seeds, Non-GMO Heirloom Flower Seeds
Among these five picks, I’d put Madame Galen trumpet vine closest to the roundup’s hummingbird purpose: its deep orange to salmon-red flowers are specifically described as attracting hummingbirds. Blooming from mid-summer through fall also gives it a longer stated season than either allium, whose listed bloom period is late spring to early summer. The comparison comes with a space commitment. This fast-growing vine can reach up to 25 feet, so it needs room and support; the 45-Piece Perennial Hummingbird Mint mix is a better match for a sunny border where a climbing plant would be unwieldy. The vine tolerates various soil types, but the supplied details do not specify sun exposure, hardiness zones, or watering needs. I’d choose it only where its eventual size can be accommodated.
Pros:- Deep orange to salmon-red flowers are described as attracting hummingbirds
- Blooms from mid-summer through fall
- Fast-growing vine adds vertical coverage
- Tolerates various soil types
Cons:- Can reach 25 feet and needs ample space
- Supplied details do not specify sun exposure or hardiness zones
- Vining growth is less suited to a compact border than the hummingbird mint mix
Best for: Gardeners with ample vertical space and support who want a climbing flower described as attracting hummingbirds through fall
Not ideal for: Small-space gardeners or anyone without room and support for a vine that can grow up to 25 feet
- Plant type:Madame Galen trumpet vine
- Flower color:Deep orange to salmon-red
- Maximum height:Up to 25 feet
- Blooming period:Mid-summer through fall
- Seed type:Non-GMO heirloom
Our verdict“Choose Madame Galen for a spacious garden with climbing support and a long-season hummingbird flower.”
SunHaven Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Wildflower Mix, 30,000+ Seeds, 1 oz
SunHaven’s 30,000-plus-seed mix is a fit for gardeners who want a diverse patch of hummingbird- and butterfly-attracting flowers in a modest area. Its stated coverage of up to 100 square feet gives it a more manageable scale than Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix, which is listed for up to 1,000 square feet. That smaller footprint can suit a border or container planting without committing a large stretch of garden. The mix is described as blooming from summer through frost, so it offers a long window for pollinator activity, though it does not promise the spring start listed for Burpee. The tradeoff is the full-sun requirement and steady moisture needed until germination. Choose it for a sunny, prepared bed; skip it if your planting spot is shaded or you want a single, predictable flower type.
Pros:- Listed to cover up to 100 square feet, a manageable scale for smaller beds.
- Blooms from summer through frost according to the product description.
- Attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators.
- Resealable foil-lined pouch helps store unused seeds.
Cons:- Needs full sun, limiting where it can be planted.
- Soil must stay consistently moist until germination.
- The listed bloom period starts in summer, later than Burpee’s spring-through-fall window.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny border, container area, or small meadow who want a mixed pollinator planting with summer-to-frost blooms.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with mostly shaded planting space or anyone unable to keep the soil moist through germination.
- Seed count:30,000+
- Package weight:1 oz
- Coverage:Up to 100 sq ft
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Expected bloom period:Summer to fall; continuous blooms through frost
- Planting period:Spring
- Soil moisture:Average; keep consistently moist until germination
- Seed type:Non-GMO, open-pollinated
- Package:Resealable foil-lined pouch
Our verdict“Choose SunHaven for a sunny, compact pollinator patch; pick Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix if you need coverage for a much larger area.”
Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Non-GMO Seeds, 18 Varieties
Burpee’s 18-variety mix makes the strongest case here for filling a broad sunny area: its stated coverage reaches up to 1,000 square feet, far beyond SunHaven’s 100-square-foot listing. The blend combines annual and perennial wildflowers and is described as blooming from spring through fall until frost, giving gardeners a longer stated season than SunHaven’s summer-to-frost schedule. Featured flowers include butterfly milkweed, calendula, cornflower, plains coreopsis, cosmos, and foxglove; the mix is designed to attract hummingbirds and butterflies. That variety and coverage suit a meadow-style planting, but a large area still needs a sunny site and careful timing after heavy frost danger passes. Compared with Cardinal Flower Seeds, Burpee offers broader coverage and flower variety, while cardinal flower is the more focused choice for moist, partly shaded spots.
Pros:- Listed to cover up to 1,000 square feet.
- Includes 18 varieties of annual and perennial wildflowers.
- Described as blooming from spring through fall until frost.
- Non-GMO seed mix designed to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Cons:- Requires a full-sun planting area.
- Outdoor sowing should wait until the danger of heavy frost has passed.
- The broad mix is less suited to gardeners who want one specific flower or a tightly controlled planting.
Best for: Gardeners establishing a large, sunny meadow or broad garden bed who want a mix of annual and perennial flowers across the growing season.
Not ideal for: Small-space gardeners or people without a sunny area large enough to use the listed coverage.
- Seed count:25,000
- Varieties:18
- Seed type:Non-GMO
- Plant types:Annual and perennial wildflowers
- Coverage:Up to 1,000 square feet
- Sun exposure:Full sun
- Bloom season:Spring through fall, until frost
- Featured varieties:Butterfly milkweed, calendula, cornflower, plains coreopsis, cosmos, foxglove
Our verdict“Pick Burpee for a large sunny planting with varied flowers and a long stated bloom season; choose Cardinal Flower Seeds for a smaller, moisture-loving perennial planting.”
100 Cardinal Flower Seeds, Red Lobelia cardinalis
Cardinal flower seeds are the most focused choice in this batch: instead of a mixed wildflower patch, they grow into red Lobelia cardinalis perennials suited to full sun to partial shade. That makes them a better match than Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix for gardeners whose space gets some shade, though cardinal flower has a specific requirement of moist soil. The product description says the flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, tolerate deer, and may reseed themselves in suitable conditions. Those traits can help a planting return over time, but reseeding is conditional, and the listing provides no bloom-season or coverage details to guide layout. Compared with SunHaven’s broad, multicolor seed mix, this is a narrower planting with a stated hardiness range of zones 2–9. Choose it when the site suits the plant and you want a perennial; skip it if the soil dries out.
Pros:- Perennial plant type can return across seasons.
- Suitable for full sun to partial shade, unlike the full-sun wildflower mixes.
- Flowers are described as attracting hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Deer resistant and may reseed itself in optimum conditions.
Cons:- Requires moist soil, which may need regular watering in dry gardens.
- The listing gives no coverage area or expected bloom period.
- A single species offers less variety than the SunHaven or Burpee mixes.
Best for: Gardeners in hardiness zones 2–9 with moist soil and a full-sun or partly shaded spot who want a red perennial for hummingbirds.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with dry beds, or buyers who need a stated coverage area, bloom schedule, or varied mix of flower colors.
- Quantity:100 seeds
- Plant type:Perennial
- Hardiness zones:2–9
- Light:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Moist soils
- Deer resistant:Yes
- Botanical name:Lobelia cardinalis
- Flower color:Red
Our verdict“Choose cardinal flower for a moist, partly shaded garden where a red perennial suits the site; choose a wildflower mix for broader color and coverage.”
How We Picked
I compared the 13 options by how directly their stated flower types and planting formats suit a hummingbird garden. The ranking favors variety across bloom types and seasons, useful planting flexibility, and a clear fit for common garden spaces. I also considered whether a product is a single species, a mixed seed packet, or bulbs, since each asks the buyer to make different choices about timing, placement, and garden design.
The top positions go to options with a compelling balance of hummingbird appeal and practical versatility. Focused choices rank well when they serve a distinct need, such as a red flower planting or a climbing screen, but their narrower use keeps them below broadly adaptable mixes. Bulbs and individual allium varieties offer specific seasonal interest; because the lineup does not provide enough detail to compare exact bloom calendars or regional performance, I avoid treating any one as a guaranteed season-long solution.
| flowers for hummingbird | Sun exposure |
|---|---|
| Star of Persia Allium | Full sun to partial shade |
| Bentley Pollinator Wildflower | — |
| Hummingbird Trumpet Vine Seeds | — |
| Ruby Giant Species Crocus Bulb | Full sun to partial shade |
| Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and | — |
| 45-Piece Perennial Hummingbird | Full sun |
| Seed Needs Hummingbird and But | — |
| Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb | Full sun to partial shade |
| Purple Sensation Allium Flower | Full sun to partial shade |
| Madame Galen Trumpet Vine Seed | — |
| SunHaven Seeds Butterfly and H | Full sun |
| Burpee Wildflower Seed Mix | Full sun |
| 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Flowers For Hummingbirds
Choosing flowers for hummingbirds means planning the garden as a habitat, not just picking the packet with the largest seed count. These factors can help you match a planting to your space, local conditions, and the time you want to spend maintaining it.
Plan for a sequence of blooms
A single flowering period can leave a garden with little nectar before or after its main display. Aim to combine plants with different bloom seasons, and check the expected timing for your region before buying. Seed mixes may offer a range of species, but a species list alone does not prove that blooms will overlap in a useful sequence. Bulbs can add a distinct seasonal layer alongside seeds. A common mistake is buying several packets that all flower at the same time, creating abundance for a short window and little support afterward.
Match plant growth to available space
Think about mature spread and height before sowing, especially near paths, fences, and neighboring plants. A climbing vine can fill a vertical area, but it may need a sturdy support and room to grow. Mixed flowers can occupy a broad bed, while bulbs allow more deliberate placement among established plants. Packet counts do not tell you how much space a planting will occupy because seed size and sowing density differ. Check the seller’s planting directions and leave room for airflow and access for weeding.
Check local growing conditions
Sun exposure, soil moisture, drainage, and winter conditions all affect whether a flower can establish. A plant described as suitable for pollinators may still perform poorly in a garden with the wrong light or soil. Compare the growing instructions with your site and look for guidance suited to your region. If a packet lists a mix of species, confirm that its contents suit your climate rather than assuming every seed will thrive. Starting with a small area can help you learn what grows well before devoting a large bed to it.
Choose between a mix and a single species
A mix saves time when you want a varied look and are comfortable with a less controlled result. Single-species seeds or bulbs let you place a particular flower where its height, color, or form matters. Mixtures can include plants with different germination needs, so read sowing instructions closely and avoid burying fine seed too deeply. A focused planting may make garden planning easier, but it can leave gaps if the chosen species does not establish. The right choice depends on whether you value variety or control more.
Budget effort for establishment and upkeep
Seeds often need suitable sowing conditions and time to establish; bulbs generally require correct planting depth and timing. Both formats can need watering while roots develop, even if mature plants later tolerate drier spells. Vines may call for pruning and support, while mixed beds may need thinning to prevent vigorous plants from crowding others. Consider the work you can do during the first growing season, not just the mature garden you hope to have. Clear care directions and a manageable planting area can matter more than a large quantity of seed.
Look beyond color when supporting hummingbirds
Bright red flowers are visually striking, but color alone does not determine whether a garden will provide useful nectar. Flower shape, bloom access, and the timing of flowering all affect the planting’s appeal. Avoid treating a decorative mix as a complete habitat plan; include several flower forms and keep blooms available at different points in the season. Do not use pesticides on flowers visited by pollinators. A garden with a range of suitable blooms is a stronger choice than one chosen only for a red display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a wildflower mix or plant one flower type?
Choose a mix if you want varied flowers and are comfortable with some variation in what establishes. A single species gives you more control over color, placement, and the look of a bed, but it concentrates the planting around one growth and bloom pattern. Check whether a mix names its species and whether those plants suit your site. For a small garden, a focused planting can be easier to manage; for a larger area, a compatible mix can add variety. Either way, plan for more than one bloom period if you want flowers available across the season.
Are red flowers enough to attract hummingbirds?
Red blooms can catch a hummingbird’s attention, but color alone is not a reliable garden plan. Flower shape and nectar access matter, as do the presence of blooms at different times of the season. A red single-species planting may look cohesive, yet it can leave fewer options if that flower has a short bloom window. Pair vivid flowers with other suitable species and check their growing needs. Avoid pesticides on flowering plants that hummingbirds and other pollinators may visit.
Can I plant trumpet vine in a small garden?
It depends on the space and support available, so check the growth habit and mature size for the specific vine before sowing. A climber can make use of a fence or trellis, but it still needs room above and around that structure. In a compact garden, a vigorous vine may crowd nearby plants or require regular pruning. If you cannot give it a dedicated vertical area, a seed mix or a smaller focused planting may be easier to place. Follow the packet’s guidance and local advice on managing the vine.
When should I sow seeds or plant bulbs for hummingbird flowers?
Timing depends on the species, your local climate, and whether a seed needs a particular germination treatment. Use the package directions alongside a local planting calendar rather than assuming every seed in a mix shares the same schedule. Bulbs also have specific planting seasons and depths, which can differ by type. Planning backward from the flowering period you want can help you combine seeds and bulbs effectively. If directions are vague, confirm the plant’s requirements before putting a large quantity in the ground.
How many flower types do I need for a useful hummingbird garden?
There is no single number that suits every garden; available space, local conditions, and bloom timing matter more than a target count. A few compatible species with different flowering periods can serve a small bed better than many plants that bloom together. A mixed packet may supply variety, but check its contents and sowing needs so one fast-growing plant does not dominate. In a larger garden, add types gradually and observe which establish well. Think of the planting as a sequence of flowers rather than a count of varieties.
Conclusion
Best overall: choose the 23-species Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix if you want the widest stated blend of annual and perennial options. Best value for a varied planting: compare the named species and sowing directions across the one-ounce mixes before choosing; a larger seed count alone does not settle which will fit your garden. Best premium-style focused pick: the Cardinal Flower seeds suit gardeners who want a distinct red planting, while best for beginners is a clearly labeled mix whose instructions match your local conditions. For vertical space, pick trumpet vine only if you can manage its growth; for seasonal bulb color, choose among the alliums or crocus based on their planting requirements. Match the format to your space and maintenance plans, then combine flowers with different bloom periods for a more useful garden.
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