Hummingbirds Will Be Flocking To Your Yard With The Help Of This Stunning Red Flower

While most birds are a dream to watch play in your yard, there is one that's far more interesting to see than others. Hummingbirds, with their jewel-colored feathers and fluttering wings, are quite charming. They also don't gravitate towards seeds and suet feeders like other birds do. No, if you want to attract them, there is one bright red flower you need to have in your garden. 

The brilliant crimson flower in question is the scarlet sage, with the scientific name Salvia coccinea. It means "scarlet dyed" due to its brilliant red color. However, you want to be sure you pick the right plant. There is another type of sage, Salvia splendens, that shares the same common name, but is fairly different – though both are attractive to hummingbirds.

In fact, these birds love this plant so much that its other common name is hummingbird sage. They most enjoy the bright red color of the flowers. And they're not the only ones. Bees and butterflies also enjoy them and the nectar they produce. Even some birds, like goldfinches, will visit the scarlet sage to get a bite of the seeds. However, though they all enjoy the plant, certain pests, like rabbits and deer, tend to avoid these plants. By growing them around the edge of your garden, you can help add a layer of protection for your other flowers, fruits, and vegetables. 

Of course, not everyone can plant scarlet sage. It works best in zones 9 and 10, though it does well anywhere from 8a to 10b, and is native to parts of Mexico and the southern states of the U.S. Like most other Salvia, the scarlet sage prefers soil that drains well. It isn't so picky with light, enjoying both full sun and partial sun. 

As to why scarlet sage attracts hummingbirds, that is because of its bright coloring. Hummingbirds love the color red and are quick to stop in places full where it is abundant. Additionally, the long, tubular shape of the flowers is the perfect design for hummingbirds and their tongues. However, if this color doesn't fit in your yard, or it's not a plant that grows easily in your zone, you aren't without options. Though these pint-sized birds like red, they also enjoy other colors, which is why there are plenty of gorgeous flowers you can plant to attract hummingbirds to your yard. If you want something more bold and eye-catching than simple flowers, you can also choose to plant a stunning tree called the crepe myrtle to attract pollinators like hummingbirds. 

There's no reason why you can only plant one species of flower, either. Have a whole field of wildflowers, with scarlet sage, honeysuckle, bee balm, and several other kinds in one area. That offers variety for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. You may also want to look at planting wildflowers that are native to your area, which is friendlier for the environment and more enticing for local animals.