I used to think hummingbirds were just picky visitors, never stopping in my yard. Turns out, I was planting the wrong flowers!
Once I added blazing stars, everything changed. Suddenly, my garden became their favorite pit stop, full of color and movement.
Now they’re everywhere, darting around like little garden helpers, and I couldn’t imagine my yard without them. Here are the varieties that made it happen!
1. Tall Purple Blooms That Steal The Show
If you’re looking for a hummingbird magnet, Dense blazing star is a classic choice. With tall spikes covered in purple blooms, it’s like a lighthouse for hungry hummers.
My favorite part? It keeps blooming through the summer, so there’s no awkward “closed for business” sign mid-season.
This variety is also super low-maintenance. I can ignore it for weeks (not that I recommend this), and it still shows up looking fabulous. Think of it as the dependable friend who never forgets your birthday!
2. Small But Mighty Flowers For Rock Gardens
Rock garden fans, this one’s for you. Dwarf blazing star might be small (maxing out at 2 feet tall), but don’t let its size fool you – it’s a hummingbird favorite.
I planted it in a sunny, rocky corner of my yard that nothing else seemed to like, and boom! Instant success.
The compact size is also great if you don’t want towering plants overshadowing everything else in your garden. It also fits perfectly with other rock garden plants, so it’s a win-win!
3. Late Bloomers That Keep The Party Going
If you’re like me and want your garden to keep buzzing well into fall, Prairie blazing star (Liatris pycnostachya) and Rough blazing star (Liatris aspera) are your go-tos.
Their bright purple and magenta blooms scream, “Hey, hummingbirds! Over here!” all the way to the first frost.
I’ll admit, I had my doubts about planting these late bloomers. But when everything else started to fade, these guys showed up to save the day. It’s like they knew my garden needed a second wind – and they delivered.
4. White Blooms That Stand Out In The Crowd
Not a fan of bold colors? Don’t worry, hummingbirds don’t discriminate. The white-blooming Liatris spicata ‘Alba’ still packs plenty of nectar to keep your feathered friends happy.
I planted this variety next to other hummingbird-attracting plants, and the mix of colors is stunning – plus, it keeps the birds guessing.
Pro tip: This variety can grow up to 6 feet tall. So, if you’re going for a dramatic effect (or just want your neighbors to be jealous), this is the one to plant.
No matter your garden’s conditions (dry soil, rocky corners, or shady spots) there’s a blazing star variety for you.
These flowers bring beauty and hummingbirds, while you get to sit back and enjoy the show. So, grab a trowel and start planting!