The best hummingbird flowers pair nectar-rich blooms with a planting plan suited to your climate and garden space. My best overall pick is Penstemon Seeds – Eaton’s Red, a focused perennial choice for gardeners who want a dependable red-flowering anchor rather than a mixed patch. For broader variety, Burpee Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix offers 18 varieties, while 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds suit gardeners seeking a vivid, species-specific planting. The main tradeoffs are variety versus predictability, annual color versus perennial return, and seed-mix convenience versus the work of matching plants to local conditions. Read on for how all 14 options compare and which one fits your garden.
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Key Takeaways
- Penstemon Eaton’s Red leads for gardeners who want a named perennial flower rather than an unspecified blend, though it offers less variety than mixed packets.
- Burpee’s 18-variety mix stands out among the listed blends for its stated variety count; broad mixes can offer a longer succession of blooms but may be less predictable in a particular yard.
- Cardinal flower seeds and Gladiator Allium bulbs are focused alternatives to seed blends, suited to gardeners choosing a particular plant form or garden effect.
- The roundup includes several mixes with very different stated sizes and variety counts, so packet weight or seed count alone does not reveal how much useful bloom a garden will produce.
- A seed mix is only a strong fit when its growing requirements match the site; checking climate, sun, soil moisture, and sowing instructions matters more than a hummingbird label.
| Penstemon Seeds – Eaton’s Red Hummingbird (Beardtongue) Perennial |  | Best for a Long-Term Native Border | Plant type: Perennial | Light: Full sun | Height: 16–18 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Earth Science Butterfly & Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Blend, 4 oz |  | Best for Broad-Area Coverage | Seed blend: Butterfly and hummingbird wildflowers | Weight: 4 oz | Seed count: Over 40,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Burpee Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Non-GMO Seeds, 18 Varieties |  | Best for a Varied Seasonal Display | Seed count: 25,000 | Flower varieties: 18 | Coverage: Up to 1,000 square feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Family Sown Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 Ounce, 7,500 Seeds |  | Best for a Small Trial Patch | Packet size: 1 ounce | Seed quantity: Over 7,500 | Coverage: Approximately 100 square feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 45Pcs Perennial Mix Hummingbird Mint Flower Seeds – Attracts Hummingbirds and Butterflies |  | Best for Cut-Flower Borders | Plant type: Perennial | Seed quantity: 45 | Sunlight: Full sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BBB Seed Hummingbird Flower Seeds Mix, Non-GMO Wildflowers, 1 oz |  | Best for Broad Climate Coverage | Weight: 1 oz | Coverage: 100+ sq. ft. | USDA hardiness zones: 2–9 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds (Lobelia cardinalis), Red Hummingbird Wildflower |  | Best Single-Species Hummingbird Pick | Seed count: 100 | Item weight: 3 g | Flower type: Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Groundio Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 oz, 24 Varieties |  | Best for Variety and Quick Seasonal Color | Seed varieties: 24 | Package size: 1 oz | Coverage: 194 sq. ft. | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 Ounce |  | Best for High Seed Quantity in a Small Packet | Package size and quantity: 1 oz; approximately 15,000 seeds | Named varieties: Snapdragon, cosmos, forget-me-not, butterfly milkweed, and scarlet salvia | Sunlight: Full sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sweet Yards Butterfly and Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Mix, 1/4 Pound |  | Best for Large Garden Coverage | Weight: 4 oz (1/4 pound) | Seed count: Over 30,000 | Flower species: 23 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb |  | Best for a Dramatic Accent | Quantity: 1 bulb | Bulb size: 18/20 cm | Bloom color and diameter: Purple; 6–8 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix – 1 Ounce Packet |  | Best for Broad Coverage | Seed quantity: More than 7,500 seeds | Species count: 23 | Coverage: Up to 100 square feet | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hummingbird Flower Seeds for Planting – Survival Garden Seeds (1 Pack) |  | Best for a Long Blooming Season | Seed type: Heirloom, non-GMO; untreated | Expected bloom period: Spring to fall | Sunlight: Full sun | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Home Grown 21-Variety Wildflower Seed Mix, 3 oz |  | Best for High Seed Volume | Net weight: 3 oz | Seed quantity: More than 110,600 | Varieties: 21 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| hummingbird flower | Sunlight | Coverage | Expected plant height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penstemon Seeds | — | — | — |
| Earth Science Butterfly & Humm | Full sun | Approximately 1,500 square feet | — |
| Burpee Hummingbird and Butterf | Full sun | Up to 1,000 square feet | 65 centimeters |
| Family Sown Hummingbird and Bu | — | Approximately 100 square feet | — |
| 45Pcs Perennial Mix Hummingbir | Full sun | — | — |
| BBB Seed Hummingbird Flower Se | Full sun | 100+ sq. ft. | — |
| 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds | — | — | — |
| Groundio Wildflower Seed Mix | — | 194 sq. ft. | 12–48 inches |
| Seed Needs Hummingbird and But | Full sun | — | 36 inches |
| Sweet Yards Butterfly and Humm | Full sun | About 400 sq. ft. | Up to 4 feet |
| Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb | Full sun to partial shade | — | — |
| Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and | Full sun | Up to 100 square feet | About 4 feet |
| Hummingbird Flower Seeds for P | Full sun | — | 36 inches |
| Home Grown 21-Variety Wildflow | — | — | About 2 feet |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Penstemon Seeds – Eaton’s Red Hummingbird (Beardtongue) Perennial
Eaton’s Red penstemon suits gardeners who want a defined perennial planting rather than a broad, mixed wildflower patch. Its crimson summer flowers offer a focused nectar source, while the compact 16–18-inch height fits borders and rock gardens without the spread of a seed blend such as Earth Science Butterfly & Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Blend. Once established, it tolerates drought and deer pressure, which can reduce routine care. The tradeoff is patience: seeds need cold stratification, establishment can be slow, and flowering may wait until the second year. I’d choose this for a sunny spot where a returning perennial is more useful than quick, varied color; skip it if you need flowers in the first season or have soil prone to staying wet.
Pros:- Red summer blooms are suited to a hummingbird-focused planting.
- Drought tolerant once established.
- Deer tend to avoid the plant.
- Compact height works well in borders and rock gardens.
Cons:- Cold stratification is needed for spring planting.
- May not bloom until its second year.
- Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Best for: Gardeners in zones 5–9 who want a compact, drought-tolerant perennial for a sunny border or rock garden and can wait for it to establish.
Not ideal for: First-time seed growers seeking immediate blooms, or gardeners with waterlogged soil who cannot provide well-drained conditions.
- Plant type:Perennial
- Light:Full sun
- Height:16–18 inches
- Spacing:12–15 inches
- Bloom color:Red
- Bloom season:Late spring to early summer
- Hardiness zones:5–9
- Seed count:250
Our verdict“Choose Eaton’s Red penstemon for a low-care, returning red-flowered border plant if you can wait beyond the first growing season.”
Earth Science Butterfly & Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Blend, 4 oz
Earth Science’s 4-ounce blend is the broad-coverage pick here: its stated 40,000-plus seeds are intended to cover about 1,500 square feet, a larger area than Burpee’s mix, which lists coverage up to 1,000 square feet. The diverse selection—including coneflowers, cosmos, Shasta daisies, sweet Williams, and black-eyed Susans—creates a mixed pollinator planting rather than the focused red display of Eaton’s Red penstemon. It is also listed as non-GMO and free of harmful chemicals or pesticides. That scale calls for a suitable sunny site and regular attention at the start: the planting instructions call for daily watering during the first two weeks. I’d pick it for a large open patch, but not for a shaded garden or a small bed where spreading seed across the full area would be wasteful.
Pros:- More than 40,000 seeds are listed for approximately 1,500 square feet of coverage.
- Includes a varied selection of named flowers.
- Designed to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.
- Listed as non-GMO and free of harmful chemicals or pesticides.
Cons:- Calls for daily watering during the first two weeks.
- Full sun is specified, limiting placement options.
- The large coverage area may be excessive for a small garden.
Best for: Gardeners with a large, sunny yard or open plot who want a diverse, pollinator-oriented wildflower planting.
Not ideal for: People with shaded planting areas, limited watering availability during establishment, or only a small garden bed.
- Seed blend:Butterfly and hummingbird wildflowers
- Weight:4 oz
- Seed count:Over 40,000
- Coverage:Approximately 1,500 square feet
- Included flowers:Purple coneflowers, cosmos, Shasta daisies, sweet Williams, black-eyed Susans, and more
- Planting season:Spring or fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Hardiness zones:4–9
- Moisture needs:Moderate watering
Our verdict“Choose Earth Science for a large sunny patch and broad flower variety; pick Eaton’s Red penstemon instead for a smaller, defined perennial planting.”
Burpee Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 25,000 Non-GMO Seeds, 18 Varieties
Burpee’s 18-variety mix offers a more specified flower lineup than Family Sown’s 1-ounce mix, whose individual varieties are not listed. Its 25,000 seeds cover up to 1,000 square feet and combine annuals and perennials, giving gardeners a blend of flower types rather than a single perennial such as Eaton’s Red penstemon. The named selection ranges from butterfly milkweed and scarlet sage to cosmos, zinnia, and dwarf sunflower, so it can add varied forms and colors to a sunny planting. The mix is intended to bloom from spring through fall, but that result depends on establishment; the soil should not dry out during the first few weeks. I’d choose it for a large, sunny space where variety matters, not for shade or a tightly planned bed that needs known, uniform plants.
Pros:- Lists 18 flower varieties, including both annuals and perennials.
- Provides up to 1,000 square feet of stated coverage.
- Non-GMO seed mix is designed to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Intended to bloom from spring through fall.
Cons:- Requires full sun.
- Young planting should not dry out during the first few weeks.
- The varied mix may be less suited to gardeners who want a uniform or tightly controlled display.
Best for: Gardeners who want a large sunny wildflower area with a named mix of annual and perennial varieties and can keep young seedlings watered.
Not ideal for: Those gardening in partial shade, seeking a single predictable flower type, or unable to keep the soil from drying during establishment.
- Seed count:25,000
- Flower varieties:18
- Coverage:Up to 1,000 square feet
- Seed type:Non-GMO; annual and perennial
- Bloom period:Spring through fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Expected plant height:65 centimeters
- Planting period:Spring to summer
Our verdict“Choose Burpee for a sunny, varied wildflower planting with named varieties; choose Eaton’s Red penstemon for a smaller, more defined perennial feature.”
Family Sown Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 Ounce, 7,500 Seeds
Family Sown’s 1-ounce packet is the more manageable scale choice for a roughly 100-square-foot patch, especially beside larger offerings such as Burpee’s mix, which is listed for up to 1,000 square feet. Its resealable packet includes planting instructions, so it can suit a gardener trying a pollinator bed without committing to a broad field planting. The product is intended to attract hummingbirds and butterflies, but unlike Burpee, it does not name the flowers in the blend. That makes the eventual display harder to plan around for color, height, or specific varieties. Results also depend on growing conditions, and the listing provides limited cultivation details beyond the included instructions. I’d use it for a small experimental patch; choose a named mix or Eaton’s Red penstemon if you want clearer expectations about what will grow.
Pros:- Over 7,500 seeds are intended for approximately 100 square feet.
- Resealable zipper packet can be stored between planting sessions.
- Planting instructions are included.
- Designed to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Cons:- Specific flower varieties are not listed.
- Bloom results depend on local growing conditions.
- The provided data offers limited detail on light, bloom timing, and hardiness.
Best for: Gardeners testing a modest wildflower patch who want a resealable packet and planting instructions without sowing a large area.
Not ideal for: Gardeners who need named flower varieties, predictable plant heights, or detailed growing specifications before choosing a seed mix.
- Packet size:1 ounce
- Seed quantity:Over 7,500
- Coverage:Approximately 100 square feet
- Packaging:Reusable zipper packet
- Instructions:Planting instructions included
- Attracts:Hummingbirds and butterflies
Our verdict“Choose Family Sown for a small trial patch and simple packet handling, but pick Burpee if knowing the flower varieties matters more.”
45Pcs Perennial Mix Hummingbird Mint Flower Seeds – Attracts Hummingbirds and Butterflies
This hummingbird mint seed pack is the lineup’s focused choice for gardeners who want perennial flower spikes that can serve both pollinators and cut-flower arrangements. Unlike the broad Earth Science blend, it centers on hummingbird mint rather than a named assortment of different flowers, making it a better fit for a repeated border planting than a mixed meadow. The product lists 45 seeds, full-sun exposure, and drought tolerance once established. Those traits suit a sunny site where plants can settle in before needing less water. The tradeoff is that germination and establishment may take time, and seeds need light to germinate; the listing also gives no hardiness zones, height, or specific bloom schedule to guide placement. I’d choose it for a sunny border with room for patience, not for shade or a quick, fully specified display.
Pros:- Perennial flowers are intended to attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Drought tolerant once established.
- Flower spikes can be used as cut flowers.
- GMO-free material is listed.
Cons:- Requires full sun.
- Seeds need light to germinate.
- Establishment may take time, and the listing lacks hardiness-zone and plant-height details.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny border who want perennial hummingbird mint spikes that can also be cut for arrangements.
Not ideal for: Gardeners needing zone-specific growing guidance, fast first-season results, or plants for a shaded location.
- Plant type:Perennial
- Seed quantity:45
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Usage:Outdoor
- Special feature:Attracts pollinators
- Material feature:GMO free
- Drought tolerance:Tolerant once established
- Uses:Border backgrounds and cut flowers
Our verdict“Choose hummingbird mint for a sunny perennial border with cut-flower use in mind; choose Burpee’s mix for more named varieties and broader planting guidance.”
BBB Seed Hummingbird Flower Seeds Mix, Non-GMO Wildflowers, 1 oz
BBB Seed’s wide zone range makes this a flexible choice for gardeners who want a mixed planting rather than a single hummingbird favorite. One ounce covers 100+ square feet, and the annual-and-perennial blend is intended to bring in hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees over the growing season. Compared with Sweet Yards Butterfly and Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Mix, this packet covers less ground, but it suits a smaller plot and lists hardiness zones 2–9. Its tradeoffs are practical: the mix calls for full sun, sandy soil, and moderate watering, so it may be a poor match for a shaded bed or heavy, wet ground. I’d choose it for a sunny area where broad climate suitability matters more than a large seed quantity.
Pros:- Lists hardiness zones 2–9, giving it broad geographic range.
- One ounce is specified to cover more than 100 square feet.
- Mix is intended to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.
- Non-GMO and open-pollinated seed.
Cons:- Full sun is required, limiting placement options.
- Sandy soil and moderate watering are recommended, which may not suit every garden.
- Provides less coverage than the 400-square-foot Sweet Yards mix.
Best for: Gardeners in USDA zones 2–9 who want a small, mixed pollinator planting for a sunny, sandy-soil bed.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with shaded plots, heavy clay soil, or very dry sites that cannot provide moderate watering.
- Weight:1 oz
- Coverage:100+ sq. ft.
- USDA hardiness zones:2–9
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Planting season:Spring and late fall
- Soil:Sandy soil
- Moisture:Moderate watering
- Seed status:Non-GMO
Our verdict“Choose BBB Seed for a sunny, sandy planting in a wide range of climates; pick Sweet Yards instead when you need substantially more coverage.”
100 Cardinal Flower Seeds (Lobelia cardinalis), Red Hummingbird Wildflower
For gardeners who want a recognizable hummingbird flower instead of a mixed seed bed, cardinal flower’s red blooms give this packet a more focused purpose than BBB Seed’s multicolor wildflower blend. The perennial flowers are listed for summer-to-fall bloom and can grow in full sun or partial shade, a useful option where a full-sun-only mix like Seed Needs is not a fit. The main catch comes before planting: seeds need at least 45 days of cold, moist stratification, so this is not a quick, scatter-and-water choice. Cardinal flower also needs moist soil, which makes it better suited to a reliably damp bed than a dry border. I’d favor it when a gardener is willing to plan ahead for a specific red perennial; choose a blend for broader color and less specialized preparation.
Pros:- Focused cardinal flower planting rather than an unspecified mix of species.
- Perennial flowers may reseed in suitable conditions.
- Grows in full sun to partial shade.
- Listed as deer resistant and attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.
Cons:- Requires at least 45 days of cold, moist stratification before planting.
- Needs moist soil, making it less suited to dry gardens.
- Offers less variety than mixed-flower packets such as Groundio’s 24-variety blend.
Best for: Gardeners who want red, perennial cardinal flowers for a moist bed and can prepare seeds through cold, moist stratification.
Not ideal for: New or time-pressed gardeners seeking seeds they can sow immediately, or anyone with a dry planting site.
- Seed count:100
- Item weight:3 g
- Flower type:Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
- Hardiness zones:2–9
- Light:Full sun to partial shade
- Soil:Moist
- Bloom period:Summer to fall
- Stratification:Cold, moist stratification for at least 45 days
Our verdict“Pick cardinal flower for a planned, moist-site planting of red perennials, but choose a mixed blend if you want simpler sowing and broader flower variety.”
Groundio Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 oz, 24 Varieties
Groundio’s 24 varieties make it the variety-first option in this group, with annual, perennial, and biennial flowers rather than the single-species focus of the cardinal flower seeds. The listing gives gardeners useful planning figures: plants are expected to reach 12–48 inches, with germination in 5–10 days and blooms in 35–75 days. Those timelines offer a rough guide, not a guarantee, since growing conditions affect results. The resealable, moisture-resistant pouch and included planting instructions also make leftover seed easier to store than a basic packet. Compared with Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, Groundio states a coverage figure and seed purity, but it is specifically a full-sun mix for spring or summer planting. Skip it for shade or if you need a mix explicitly tailored around hummingbird flowers.
Pros:- Includes 24 annual, perennial, and biennial varieties.
- Lists coverage of 194 square feet for a one-ounce package.
- Provides estimated germination and bloom timelines for planning.
- Resealable, moisture-resistant packaging includes planting instructions.
Cons:- Requires full sun.
- Spring and summer are the stated planting seasons.
- The mix is described for pollinators broadly rather than as a specifically hummingbird-focused selection.
Best for: Full-sun gardeners who want a diverse seasonal pollinator bed, a stated coverage area, and planting guidance on the package.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with partial-shade beds or those seeking a clearly specified hummingbird-focused flower selection.
- Seed varieties:24
- Package size:1 oz
- Coverage:194 sq. ft.
- Seed purity:99% pure live seed
- Expected plant height:12–48 inches
- Germination time:5–10 days
- Expected bloom period:35–75 days
- Sunlight and planting season:Full sun; spring and summer
Our verdict“Choose Groundio for a sunny garden where variety and stated planting estimates matter more than a narrowly hummingbird-focused mix.”
Seed Needs Hummingbird and Butterfly Wildflower Seed Mix, 1 Ounce
About 15,000 seeds in one ounce is the defining advantage here: Seed Needs gives gardeners a large quantity for a compact outdoor sowing. Its named varieties include scarlet salvia and butterfly milkweed, alongside cosmos, snapdragon, and forget-me-not, making the selection more specific than Groundio’s variety count alone. The mix is designed for full sun and summer-to-fall blooms, with an expected height of about 36 inches. That height can help form a noticeable planting, but it may crowd a narrow bed if sowed heavily. The care routine is demanding compared with BBB Seed’s moderate-watering guidance: Seed Needs calls for daily watering, and it does not state the proportions of each flower type. I’d choose it for a sunny site where regular watering is manageable and a large seed count is useful.
Pros:- Approximately 15,000 seeds in a one-ounce packet.
- Names scarlet salvia and butterfly milkweed among the included flowers.
- GMO-free, heirloom, and open-pollinated.
- Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 1–10.
Cons:- Calls for daily watering.
- Full-sun exposure limits where it can be planted.
- Does not specify the proportion of each variety in the mix.
Best for: Gardeners sowing a sunny outdoor bed who want a high seed count and named hummingbird-attracting flowers such as scarlet salvia.
Not ideal for: Gardeners unable to water daily, or buyers who need a precise breakdown of how much of each flower is in the mix.
- Package size and quantity:1 oz; approximately 15,000 seeds
- Named varieties:Snapdragon, cosmos, forget-me-not, butterfly milkweed, and scarlet salvia
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Bloom period:Summer to fall
- Expected plant height:36 inches
- Planting period:Spring
- Hardiness zones:1–10
- Moisture needs:Water daily
Our verdict“Choose Seed Needs for a sunny bed where seed quantity and named flower varieties matter, provided daily watering is realistic.”
Sweet Yards Butterfly and Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Mix, 1/4 Pound
For a broad planting, Sweet Yards offers the largest stated coverage in this set: four ounces are intended to cover about 400 square feet. Its 23-species blend contains more than 30,000 heirloom annual and perennial seeds, with flowers listed as blooming from spring to fall. That makes it a stronger fit for filling a large sunny space than BBB Seed’s one-ounce, 100-plus-square-foot packet, while Groundio offers more listed varieties but much less stated coverage. The tradeoff is scale: this is more seed than a balcony planter or small border needs, and the expected height of up to four feet may be too much for low, tidy beds. It also calls for full sun and moderate watering, while actual germination and bloom depend on conditions. I’d pick it for a larger pollinator area, not a compact garden.
Pros:- Four-ounce package is intended to cover about 400 square feet.
- Contains more than 30,000 seeds across 23 flower species.
- Includes annual and perennial flowers with a stated spring-to-fall bloom period.
- Adaptable to most soils and packaged with planting instructions in a reusable zipper pouch.
Cons:- Full sun and moderate watering are required.
- Plants may reach four feet, which can overwhelm compact or low-profile beds.
- Germination and bloom results depend on growing conditions.
Best for: Gardeners planting a large, sunny pollinator bed who want substantial seed coverage and a mix of annual and perennial flowers.
Not ideal for: Container gardeners, owners of small borders, or anyone who cannot provide full sun and moderate watering.
- Weight:4 oz (1/4 pound)
- Seed count:Over 30,000
- Flower species:23
- Coverage:About 400 sq. ft.
- Bloom period:Spring to fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Expected plant height:Up to 4 feet
- Soil and moisture:Adaptable to most soils; moderate watering
Our verdict“Choose Sweet Yards when you need broad coverage for a sunny, spacious garden; a smaller packet is a better fit for compact planting areas.”
Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb
For a hummingbird garden that needs a striking focal point, this allium offers something seed mixes cannot: one tall stem topped with a 6–8-inch purple globe. It reaches 36–60 inches and blooms in late spring to early summer, bringing vertical structure before many summer wildflower mixes reach their main display. Compared with the Sweet Yards Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix, which spreads color across a larger area and season, this is a single-bulb accent, not a broad food source. The bulb is listed as attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators, and its flowers can also be cut. It suits gardeners who want a perennializing feature, but the package contains just one bulb, so it will not create a substantial planting on its own. It also needs well-draining soil and a sunny to partly shaded site.
Pros:- Large 6–8-inch purple blooms make a visible garden focal point.
- Tall growth adds vertical structure among lower flowers.
- Perennializing and naturalizing habit can return in suitable conditions.
- Can be used as a cut flower and is listed as attracting pollinators.
Cons:- One bulb provides limited coverage and may look isolated without companion plants.
- Late-spring to early-summer bloom is a shorter window than the spring-to-fall seed mixes.
- Requires well-draining soil; moderately moist conditions may not suit poorly drained beds.
Best for: Gardeners with a sunny or partly shaded bed who want a tall, sculptural purple bloom as one feature in a broader hummingbird planting.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking lots of flowers, broad seasonal coverage, or an immediate hummingbird garden from a single packet; this package contains one bulb.
- Quantity:1 bulb
- Bulb size:18/20 cm
- Bloom color and diameter:Purple; 6–8 inches
- Blooming period:Late spring to early summer
- Mature height:36–60 inches
- Sunlight:Full sun to partial shade
- USDA hardiness zones:4–8
- Soil and water:Sandy, well-draining soil; moderate water
Our verdict“Choose this single allium bulb for a bold, tall accent, but pair it with longer-blooming flowers if you want season-long hummingbird forage.”
Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and Hummingbird Mix – 1 Ounce Packet
This mix is the coverage-focused choice in this group: more than 7,500 seeds across 23 species are intended to cover up to 100 square feet, giving gardeners more room to create a substantial patch than the single Gladiator Allium bulb. Its spring-to-fall bloom window can also offer a longer succession of color than that allium’s late-spring-to-early-summer display. The mix is aimed at a broad pollinator garden, with hummingbirds among the wildlife it is meant to attract. A reusable zipper and planting instructions make storage and sowing more manageable, while adaptable soil requirements offer flexibility. The tradeoff is that this is not a low-light solution: it calls for full sun and moderate watering. Compared with Survival Garden Seeds’ mix, this packet specifies 23 species and 100-square-foot coverage, but gives less detail about hardiness zones and plant height.
Pros:- More than 7,500 seeds and 23 species support a broad, varied planting.
- Listed coverage of up to 100 square feet helps with planning a larger patch.
- Spring-to-fall bloom period can extend color beyond a single flowering window.
- Includes planting instructions and a reusable zipper packet.
Cons:- Full-sun requirement rules it out for shaded garden sites.
- Moderate watering may require ongoing attention during dry periods.
- Plant height and hardiness zones are not specified in the provided product details.
Best for: Gardeners with a full-sun area of roughly 100 square feet who want a multi-species pollinator patch and clear planting instructions.
Not ideal for: Gardeners planting in shade or those who cannot provide regular moderate watering; full-sun exposure is specified.
- Seed quantity:More than 7,500 seeds
- Species count:23
- Coverage:Up to 100 square feet
- Bloom period:Spring to fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Expected plant height:About 4 feet
- Soil and water:Adaptable to most soils; moderate watering
- Seed type:Open-pollinated annual and perennial wildflowers
Our verdict“Pick this packet for a sunny, larger pollinator patch where broad species variety matters more than shade tolerance.”
Hummingbird Flower Seeds for Planting – Survival Garden Seeds (1 Pack)
For gardeners who value bloom timing over a stated seed count, this heirloom, non-GMO mix is described as flowering in sequence from spring through fall. That staggered schedule is its main distinction from Home Grown’s 21-variety mix, which lists a summer bloom period, and from the Gladiator Allium bulb, whose display is concentrated in late spring to early summer. The flowers are intended to attract hummingbirds alongside butterflies and bees, and the listed drought tolerance and low-maintenance traits may appeal once plants are established. It is a flexible zone-range option, listed for USDA zones 3–10, but still asks for full sun and moderate watering. Product details also flag possible cold stratification when sowing without overwintering, so gardeners looking for the simplest direct-sowing route may prefer a mix with clearer sowing requirements.
Pros:- Staggered flowering is described as extending color from spring through fall.
- Heirloom and non-GMO seed features suit gardeners seeking those attributes.
- Drought tolerance and low-maintenance growth are listed once established.
- USDA zones 3–10 cover a broad range of growing areas.
Cons:- Requires full sun and moderate watering for best growth.
- Cold stratification may be needed if seeds are sown without overwintering.
- Seed quantity and variety count are not specified in the provided product details.
Best for: Full-sun gardeners in USDA zones 3–10 who want a non-GMO pollinator mix with staggered flowers from spring through fall.
Not ideal for: Gardeners with shaded beds or anyone seeking seed-count, species-count, or coverage information before planting; those details are not provided here.
- Seed type:Heirloom, non-GMO; untreated
- Expected bloom period:Spring to fall
- Sunlight:Full sun
- Planting period:Spring; late-fall to early-spring sowing may also be possible
- USDA hardiness zones:3–10
- Expected plant height:36 inches
- Soil and water:Loam; moderate watering
- Listed features:Attracts pollinators; drought tolerant; low maintenance once established
Our verdict“Choose this mix for a sunny garden where staggered spring-to-fall blooms and heirloom, non-GMO seeds matter more than a stated coverage area.”
Home Grown 21-Variety Wildflower Seed Mix, 3 oz
Home Grown stands out for the sheer number of seeds in the packet: more than 110,600 across 21 varieties, including cosmos, California poppy, and black-eyed Susan. That makes it a different proposition from the Sweet Yards 1-ounce mix, which gives a stated 100-square-foot coverage area and a spring-to-fall bloom window. Home Grown instead emphasizes quantity, with a listed summer bloom period and an expected height of about two feet—useful for gardeners planning a lower-growing outdoor patch. It is intended to attract hummingbirds as well as other pollinators, and a growing guide is included. The tradeoffs are a full-sun requirement and moderate watering, plus less season-long bloom detail than Survival Garden Seeds’ spring-to-fall mix. Its broad hardiness range is listed as zones 2–11, but actual results will still depend on local conditions.
Pros:- More than 110,600 seeds provide a high-volume sowing option.
- Includes 21 varieties, with cosmos, California poppy, and black-eyed Susan named.
- Growing guide supports gardeners who want planting direction.
- Listed for USDA zones 2–11 and suitable for gardens or meadows.
Cons:- Full-sun planting limits placement in shaded yards.
- Moderate watering is needed, which may add upkeep in dry weather.
- Summer is the listed bloom period, offering less stated season coverage than spring-to-fall mixes.
Best for: Gardeners planning a full-sun garden or meadow who want a high seed count, multiple wildflower varieties, and a growing guide.
Not ideal for: Gardeners seeking shade-tolerant flowers or a mix with a clearly stated spring-to-fall bloom schedule; this product lists summer flowering.
- Net weight:3 oz
- Seed quantity:More than 110,600
- Varieties:21
- Named flowers:Cosmos, California poppy, and black-eyed Susan
- Expected bloom period:Summer
- Expected plant height:About 2 feet
- Sunlight and water:Full sun; moderate watering
- USDA hardiness zones:2–11
Our verdict“Choose Home Grown for a high-volume, multi-variety summer wildflower planting in a sunny garden or meadow.”
How We Picked
I ranked these 14 options by how clearly they help a gardener grow flowers suited to hummingbirds, not by packaging claims alone. I weighed the stated plant identity or variety count, whether the product is a focused flower, a bulb, or a mixed seed packet, and how easily a buyer can plan around that information. I also looked at the practical tradeoffs of packet size, planting flexibility, and the uncertainty that comes with broad mixes.
The ranking favors clear-use choices with a distinct role: a named perennial as the lead pick, a multi-variety mix for gardeners seeking broader coverage, and single-species options for targeted planting. Other blends remain useful for different needs, but their order reflects how much information is supplied and how readily a buyer can judge fit before planting. Since the product details here do not establish local performance, I treat climate suitability, bloom timing, and establishment as questions buyers should confirm against the label and regional guidance.
| hummingbird flower | Sunlight |
|---|---|
| Penstemon Seeds | — |
| Earth Science Butterfly & Humm | Full sun |
| Burpee Hummingbird and Butterf | Full sun |
| Family Sown Hummingbird and Bu | — |
| 45Pcs Perennial Mix Hummingbir | Full sun |
| BBB Seed Hummingbird Flower Se | Full sun |
| 100 Cardinal Flower Seeds | — |
| Groundio Wildflower Seed Mix | — |
| Seed Needs Hummingbird and But | Full sun |
| Sweet Yards Butterfly and Humm | Full sun |
| Gladiator Allium Flower Bulb | Full sun to partial shade |
| Wildflower Seeds Butterfly and | Full sun |
| Hummingbird Flower Seeds for P | Full sun |
| Home Grown 21-Variety Wildflow | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Hummingbird Flowers
Choosing hummingbird flowers is less about finding one magic packet and more about matching a planting approach to your site. I would start with growing conditions and bloom timing, then decide how much variety and predictability you want.
Match the plants to your climate and site
A seed mix can contain attractive flowers yet still be a poor fit if its plants do not suit your region or growing conditions. Check the packet for hardiness, planting dates, sun needs, and any regional restrictions before buying. Sun exposure and soil moisture also shape which flowers will establish well, so note those conditions in the intended bed. A common mistake is choosing by the hummingbird label while overlooking whether the plants can thrive in that location. When details are missing, seek a named plant list or choose a clearly identified species that you can research locally.
Plan for bloom across the season
Hummingbirds benefit from flowers being available across a stretch of the season, not only during one brief flush. A packet’s variety count does not automatically tell you when its plants bloom, so look for bloom timing on the product information. Pairing plants with different flowering periods can spread color and nectar availability, while a single-species planting may create a more concentrated display. Avoid sowing every seed at once without checking whether the plants have different timing or spacing needs. If you are building a new bed, a mix of focused plants and a well-described blend can balance predictability with variety.
Choose between a named plant and a mixed packet
A named flower, such as a specific penstemon or cardinal flower, gives you a clearer starting point for checking height, placement, and care. A mixed packet offers more kinds of flowers in one purchase, but its exact garden result depends on the blend and growing conditions. Neither format is automatically better: focused plants suit deliberate design, while mixes make sense when you want a broader planting and can accept variation. Read the listed species where available rather than treating a large variety count as proof of a better garden. For a small bed, a few known plants may be easier to manage than a broad mix with uncertain proportions.
Treat seed counts and packet weights as planning clues
Seed count and packet weight help describe the contents, but they are not direct measures of coverage or bloom. Seed size, germination, recommended spacing, and the share of each species all affect how much planting area a packet can serve. Follow the sowing rate and spacing instructions instead of scattering a packet based on its headline count. Overcrowding can make it harder for seedlings to establish, while sparse sowing may leave gaps. If the listing does not provide coverage guidance, plan conservatively and consider buying a second packet only after checking the planting directions.
Decide how much maintenance and uncertainty you want
Wildflower mixes can produce a less formal, changing display, but they may need preparation, thinning, and patience while seedlings establish. A bulb or named perennial asks you to plan around a specific plant, which can make placement easier but offers less variety from one purchase. Before choosing, check whether sowing requires bare soil, cold treatment, regular watering, or a particular planting season. Do not assume that every product described as perennial will return reliably in every climate. Buyers wanting a low-surprise layout should favor clear plant information; those comfortable with a looser result may prefer a blend.
Support pollinators with more than flower color
Red blooms can be conspicuous, but color alone does not tell you whether a planting offers useful nectar or suits hummingbirds in your region. Favor flower forms and plants known to provide nectar, and check the species list rather than relying only on the packet name. A garden with several flowering plants can offer more continuity than one short-lived burst of color. Avoid pesticide use that can harm visiting pollinators, and provide water and suitable habitat nearby where practical. These broader choices can make a planting more supportive than simply adding the packet with the most dramatic label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a wildflower mix or a specific flower such as penstemon?
Choose a named flower when you want to research its size, growing needs, and place in a planned bed before planting. A mix is a better fit when you want a broader, less formal display and are comfortable with variation in what establishes. In this roundup, Eaton’s Red penstemon and cardinal flower seeds offer more focused choices, while products such as Burpee’s mix offer multiple varieties. Compare the species list and sowing directions before treating a mix as a ready-made design. For a small or highly planned garden, known plants can be easier to place.
Can I plant a hummingbird flower seed mix in any region?
No single mix should be assumed suitable for every region just because it is labeled for hummingbirds. Check the listed species for climate fit, local planting dates, sun exposure, and soil or moisture preferences. Some plants in a blend may be better suited to particular conditions than others, which can lead to an uneven result. If the product information does not identify its plants or regional range, ask the seller for details or seek local extension guidance. A regionally appropriate planting is more useful than a broad mix that struggles to establish.
Does a higher seed count mean a packet will cover more garden space?
Not necessarily: seed size, sowing rate, spacing, and germination all affect coverage. A packet listing many seeds can still cover a modest area if the plants need generous spacing, while a smaller count may contain larger seeds. Use the product’s coverage or sowing instructions as your guide rather than comparing headline counts alone. This is especially relevant across this roundup, which includes packets described by ounces, seed counts, and variety counts. If coverage is unclear, measure the bed and contact the seller before buying.
Are perennial hummingbird flowers a better choice than annual wildflower mixes?
They serve different planning needs. Perennials can form a recurring part of a garden when suited to the climate and cared for well, while annual mixes may provide a broader seasonal display and can be replanted or allowed to reseed depending on the plants. A perennial is not automatically lower maintenance, and a mix is not automatically temporary in every garden. Check expected bloom period, hardiness, and establishment needs for the listed plants. If you want a lasting structure, start with suitable perennials and use a mix to add variety where space allows.
Is a red flower the best choice for attracting hummingbirds?
Red flowers can be conspicuous, but color alone should not decide the planting. Look for nectar-producing flowers with forms hummingbirds can feed from, and confirm that the plants suit your region and growing conditions. The named red options in this roundup, including Eaton’s Red penstemon and cardinal flower, offer focused color choices, while mixed packets may provide a wider range of flowers. A sequence of suitable blooms can be more useful than a single color planted for a short period. Keep pesticide exposure low to protect visiting pollinators.
Conclusion
For the clearest all-around starting point, I recommend Penstemon Seeds – Eaton’s Red as the best overall choice for buyers who want a named perennial rather than a mystery mix. The best value depends on the garden: Family Sown’s 7,500-seed mix is a straightforward packet-size option, while Burpee’s 18-variety blend is the stronger pick for gardeners prioritizing a stated range of flowers. For a premium-style, more deliberate planting, choose the focused Gladiator Allium bulb if its growth needs suit your site; it is less flexible than a seed blend. Beginners may prefer a clearly labeled mix such as Earth Science Butterfly & Hummingbird Wildflower Seed Blend, provided its planting directions and species match their region. For a specific red-flower planting, consider Cardinal Flower Seeds; for a named perennial anchor, choose Eaton’s Red. Check local suitability and sowing instructions before ordering, then pick the format that matches how much variety and predictability you want.
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