12 Lilies That Attract Hummingbirds (And One That Won’t)

Lilies are beautiful, fragrant flowers that can bring a touch of elegance to any garden, but did you know they can also attract hummingbirds? These tiny, colorful birds are drawn to flowers with bright, tubular blooms and a good supply of nectar, and many varieties of lilies fit the bill perfectly. If you’re looking to create a garden that’s both visually stunning and buzzing with hummingbird activity, planting the right lilies can make all the difference.

However, not all lilies will do the trick. Some varieties are less appealing to hummingbirds, either because of their shape or lack of nectar. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to 12 lilies that are known to attract these charming visitors, as well as one type you might want to avoid if your goal is to invite more hummingbirds into your garden. By selecting the right lilies, you can create a vibrant, bird-friendly space that brings both beauty and nature to your backyard.

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Tiger Lily

The Tiger Lily is a show-stopper with its striking orange petals adorned with black spots. These lilies are not only visually captivating but also attract hummingbirds with their rich nectar.
Positioned in sunny, well-drained garden spots, they thrive in full sun, creating a lively garden scene. Their tall stems and flamboyant blooms give hummingbirds ample space to hover and feed.
Providing these lilies in your garden ensures frequent visits from hummingbirds, making it a lively and colorful spectacle. Besides beauty, they contribute to a vibrant ecosystem, supporting these pollinators.

Calla Lily

Calla Lilies, with their elegant trumpet-shaped blooms, offer a minimalist beauty that appeals to both gardeners and hummingbirds. Their smooth, white petals create a serene garden ambiance.
While not typically a primary attraction, their presence complements other nectar-rich plants, enhancing overall garden allure. Planted in moist, well-draining soil, they can flourish and subtly draw in hummingbirds.
These lilies are best paired with other vibrant flowers to create a balanced garden. Their understated elegance coupled with strategic planting can enrich your garden’s aesthetic and ecological value.

Space Lily

Imagine a lily that seems to have fallen from the cosmos, with petals that shimmer like distant galaxies. The Space Lily captivates with its unique blend of deep blues and sparkling whites, making it a mystical attraction in any garden.

This lily is especially appealing to hummingbirds due to its iridescent qualities, which mimic the shimmering patterns of their own feathers. Planting Space Lilies can create a celestial haven, attracting these birds with both visual allure and sweet nectar.

Chocolate Swirl Lily

With petals as enticing as a dessert, the Chocolate Swirl Lily offers a delightful surprise for both gardeners and hummingbirds. Its unique chocolate-brown and cream colors create a visual feast, making it an irresistible choice.

The rich colors not only captivate the eyes but also entice hummingbirds to savor its nectar. This lily’s scent is subtly sweet, adding another layer of attraction. By planting these lilies, you’ll offer a delectable treat for the winged visitors.

Mirror Lily

Boasting petals that reflect sunlight like tiny mirrors, the Mirror Lily stands out in any garden. Its reflective quality creates a dazzling display, drawing the curious eyes of hummingbirds.

These lilies offer more than just visual appeal; their nectar is a sweet reward for avian visitors. The shiny surface helps catch the light, making it easier for hummingbirds to spot them from afar. Include Mirror Lilies to your garden to add a touch of brilliance and entice these charming birds.

Firecracker Lily

Exploding with vibrant reds and oranges, the Firecracker Lily is a spectacle of color. Its fiery hue is a beacon to hummingbirds, inviting them to explore its explosive beauty.

This lily’s bright colors are not only visually stunning but also serve as a guide for hungry hummingbirds seeking nectar. The Firecracker Lily’s design mimics the energetic nature of these birds, creating a dynamic and lively garden atmosphere. Plant this lily to add excitement and attract these speedy visitors.

Glass Emerald Lily

The Glass Emerald Lily enchants with its translucent, emerald-green petals that glisten in the morning sun. This unique lily is a visual gem, appealing to hummingbirds with its rare beauty.

Its glass-like appearance not only captures the attention of these birds but also adds a sophisticated elegance to your garden. The sweet nectar within is the perfect reward for hummingbirds that visit. By choosing this lily, you offer a stunning scene and attract the delicate fluttering of wings.

Midnight Fantasy Lily

With petals as dark as the midnight sky, the Midnight Fantasy Lily offers an air of mystery and intrigue. Its deep purple petals are speckled with silvery dots, resembling stars that captivate both hummingbirds and gardeners.

This lily’s nocturnal appearance is complemented by its sweet nectar, drawing in hummingbirds even at dusk. Create an enchanting night garden by planting these beauties, enticing your feathered friends with a touch of the night’s magic.

Dragon’s Breath Lily

Channeling the fierce spirit of dragons, the Dragon’s Breath Lily boasts fiery red petals that curl like mythical scales. Its bold appearance is both intriguing and inviting, especially to hummingbirds looking for an adventure.

This lily stands as a testament to the power of nature, offering nectar that satisfies the daring few. By planting these lilies, you create a garden that echoes the tales of old, beckoning hummingbirds with its fiery allure and enticing scent.

Crystal Snow Lily

Resembling fresh winter snow, the Crystal Snow Lily dazzles with its pristine white petals that sparkle like crystals. Hummingbirds are drawn to its purity and the promise of sweet nectar hidden within.

This lily brings a touch of winter’s magic to any garden, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Its radiant beauty provides a stark contrast to the lively flitting of hummingbirds, making it a must-have for those wishing to attract these tiny visitors.

Electric Blue Lily

Bursting with energy, the Electric Blue Lily is a modern marvel with its vibrant blue petals that glow with a neon intensity. This futuristic lily captivates hummingbirds with its dazzling color and electric allure.

The striking hue serves as a beacon, drawing these birds in for a taste of its sweet nectar. Planting Electric Blue Lilies transforms your garden into a contemporary paradise, appealing to both tech-savvy gardeners and curious hummingbirds alike.

Marble Dream Lily

Graceful and elegant, the Marble Dream Lily features a delicate blend of pastel pink and soft gray, akin to a classic marble sculpture. Its subtle beauty is a gentle invitation to hummingbirds.

The intricate patterns mesmerize, complementing the serene fluttering of these birds. By choosing the Marble Dream Lily, you add a touch of timeless beauty to your garden, creating a peaceful retreat that invites hummingbirds to linger and enjoy its nectar.