Veronica flowers, known for their vibrant blooms and upright spires, are not only a beautiful addition to any garden but also serve a special purpose – attracting hummingbirds. These colorful flowers, with their tubular shape, provide an ideal feeding spot for these tiny, energetic birds.
If you’re looking to bring more wildlife into your garden while enjoying striking colors, here are 11 types of Veronica flowers that are nature’s secret to attracting hummingbirds. From deep blues to soft purples, these varieties will add both beauty and liveliness to your outdoor space.
Veronica Spicata
Known for its striking blue to purple spikes, this perennial creates a lively display. The blossoms rise above a carpet of dark green foliage, offering a contrasting backdrop that enhances their vivid color. Typically blooming from early summer to early autumn, this flower is a reliable source of nectar. It thrives in well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for garden borders or rock gardens. By planting Veronica Spicata, gardeners can enjoy a bustling scene of hummingbirds flitting from spike to spike, creating a dynamic and colorful garden spectacle.
Veronica Longifolia
With its elongated, graceful flower spikes, this Veronica variety brings elegance to any setting. The blooms’ delicate hues of pink and lavender can add a soft touch to garden compositions. Flourishing in moist, well-drained soil, Veronica Longifolia makes a charming addition to wildflower meadows and perennial borders. This flower’s extended blooming period ensures a long-lasting attraction for hummingbirds. Its gentle sway in the breeze adds movement and life to gardens, captivating both avian visitors and human admirers alike.
Veronica Prostrata
Characterized by its low-growing, creeping form, Veronica Prostrata is perfect for ground cover. Its sky-blue flowers emerge in late spring, forming a soft, colorful carpet over the landscape. This plant is ideal for edging paths or cascading over garden walls. Easy to maintain, it thrives in a variety of soil types, adapting well to different garden environments. The bright flowers lure hummingbirds close to the ground, offering a unique viewing opportunity as they feed among the blossoms.
Veronica Gentianoides
Featuring pale blue flowers with subtle veining, this Veronica variety adds a touch of serenity to shaded gardens. The flowers emerge in late spring to early summer, complementing the dark green foliage. It prefers a cool, shaded spot with moist soil, making it suitable for woodland gardens. Not only does it attract hummingbirds with its gentle charm, but it also pairs well with ferns and hostas to create a tranquil, natural setting.
Veronica Alpina
This alpine variety is a hardy addition to high-altitude gardens. The vibrant blue flowers cluster tightly, creating a striking display among rocky terrains. Veronica Alpina’s compact form makes it ideal for alpine and rock gardens, where it can withstand harsh conditions. Blooming in the early summer, it provides essential nectar for hummingbirds in higher elevations. Its ability to thrive in challenging environments makes it a versatile and resilient choice for adventurous gardeners.
Veronica Persica
Often seen as a charming weed, Veronica Persica brings subtle beauty to lawns and gardens. Its small, blue and white flowers appear scattered, adding a whimsical touch to green spaces. This plant thrives in sunny spots and is known for its resilience and ability to spread. While it may be considered invasive, its flowers are a delightful sight for hummingbirds. Providing a natural, carefree look, it invites a closer look at its tiny, intricate blooms.
Veronica Chamaedrys
Also known as ‘Speedwell’, this Veronica variety features bright blue flowers that catch the eye. The flowers’ heart-shaped leaves add an extra layer of interest, creating a visually appealing plant. Commonly found in meadows, it thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Its vibrant color and nectar-rich blooms are irresistible to hummingbirds. By including Veronica Chamaedrys in garden designs, one can foster an environment where nature’s avian wonders are regular visitors.
Veronica Armena
Adapted to dry and rocky environments, Veronica Armena showcases clusters of small pink flowers. This low-growing plant is perfect for rock gardens or xeriscaping, requiring minimal water. Blooming in late spring, it provides a splash of color against its rocky backdrop. Its resilience and low maintenance make it a valuable addition to gardens where water conservation is a priority. Hummingbirds are naturally drawn to its vibrant blooms, adding life and movement to arid landscapes.
Veronica Incana
Distinctive for its silver foliage, Veronica Incana creates a stunning contrast with its deep blue flowers. The combination of colors makes it a standout choice for any garden. Preferring sunny locations with well-drained soil, it blooms in the summer, providing a mid-season feast for hummingbirds. The plant’s textured leaves add visual interest even when not in bloom, offering a unique aesthetic that remains attractive throughout the growing season.
Veronica Teucrium
The bright blue spikes of Veronica Teucrium are a striking feature in cottage gardens. Known for its upright growth, it adds height and color to flower beds. It flourishes in sunny areas with well-drained soil, requiring little maintenance. Blooming from late spring to mid-summer, it ensures a steady supply of nectar for visiting hummingbirds. Its robust nature and vibrant display make it a gardener’s favorite for adding a vertical element to garden designs.
Veronica Liwanensis
Also known as Turkish Speedwell, Veronica Liwanensis forms a dense mat of deep blue flowers. Ideal for ground cover, it helps suppress weeds while adding beauty to the garden floor. Its low-growing habit makes it perfect for edging walks or filling spaces between stepping stones. Thriving in sunny spots with rocky soil, it blooms in late spring, captivating hummingbirds with its dense flower clusters. This plant’s ability to create a vibrant, weed-free garden floor is unmatched.