Do Hummingbirds Like Lavender? Planting Tips & Facts

By Sophia Martinez · January 23, 2026

Do Hummingbirds Like Lavender? Yes, But With Conditions

Hummingbirds are attracted to lavender, though not as strongly as to other nectar-rich flowers. While lavender’s purple blooms offer some nectar and a pleasant scent, its tubular shape is less ideal for hummingbird feeding compared to trumpet-shaped flowers like bee balm or salvia. However, in gardens with limited competition, lavender can still draw hummingbirds, especially English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), which produces more accessible nectar.

Why Hummingbirds Are Selective About Flowers

Hummingbirds rely on high-energy nectar to fuel their rapid metabolism and hovering flight. They prefer flowers that provide abundant, sugar-rich nectar with easy access. Their long beaks and tongues are best suited for tubular blooms that match their anatomy.

Key Flower Traits That Attract Hummingbirds

Bright colors: Red, orange, and pink hues are most attractive.
Tubular shape: Allows deep probing with their beaks and tongues.
High nectar production: More energy per visit increases attraction.
Low fragrance: Strong scents may deter hummingbirds; they rely more on sight than smell.
Long blooming season: Provides consistent food sources.

Lavender Varieties and Their Appeal to Hummingbirds

Not all lavender species are equally appealing. Some cultivars produce more nectar and have looser flower structures, making them more accessible.

Lavender Species	Nectar Production	Flower Structure	Hummingbird Attraction Rating (1-5)	Bloom Season
Lavandula angustifolia 'Hidcote'	Moderate	Compact spikes	3.5	Early summer (6–8 weeks)
Lavandula x intermedia 'Phenomenal'	Low-Moderate	Dense spikes	3.0	Mid-summer (8 weeks)
Lavandula stoechas (French lavender)	Low	Pinecone-like with tufts	2.0	Spring to early summer
Lavandula dentata (Toothed lavender)	Low	Open structure	2.5	Spring to fall (in warm climates)

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) has the highest attraction rating due to moderate nectar output and favorable bloom timing. French and toothed lavenders, despite longer flowering periods in warm zones, offer less nectar and structural accessibility, reducing their appeal.

How to Make Lavender More Hummingbird-Friendly

If you're growing lavender and want to increase hummingbird visits, consider these expert tips:

Pair Lavender With High-Attraction Plants

Salvia spp.: Red and purple salvias are top hummingbird favorites.
Monarda (Bee Balm): Offers abundant nectar and vibrant color.
Penstemon: Tubular flowers perfectly shaped for hummingbirds.
Columbine (Aquilegia): Early-season nectar source.

Optimize Garden Layout

Plant lavender near water features or feeders to create a multi-resource zone.
Use lavender as a border plant alongside red-flowering species to guide hummingbirds visually.
Avoid pesticides, which reduce insect populations and indirectly affect hummingbird health.

Common Myths About Lavender and Hummingbirds

Myth: All purple flowers attract hummingbirds. Truth: Color alone isn't enough—shape and nectar matter more.
Myth: Fragrant flowers are always attractive. Truth: Hummingbirds prefer mild or unscented blooms; strong perfumes can repel them.
Myth: Lavender is a primary hummingbird plant. Truth: It's a secondary option, best used in combination with better nectar sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hummingbirds and Lavender

Do hummingbirds prefer lavender over other flowers?

No, hummingbirds generally prefer flowers like salvia, bee balm, and trumpet vine over lavender. These provide more nectar and better floral structure for feeding. Lavender serves as a supplemental plant rather than a primary food source.

Which type of lavender attracts the most hummingbirds?

English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), particularly cultivars like 'Hidcote' and 'Munstead', attracts the most hummingbirds due to moderate nectar production and open flower arrangement compared to denser hybrids.

Can I grow lavender to attract hummingbirds in my garden?

Yes, but it should be part of a diverse planting strategy. Pair lavender with high-nectar, tubular flowers in red or orange hues to maximize hummingbird visits. Lavender adds visual appeal and supports pollinators, even if it's not the top choice for hummingbirds.

Why don’t I see hummingbirds on my lavender if it’s blooming?

Lavender may not produce enough nectar or have the right flower shape to attract hummingbirds consistently. Also, if better nectar sources are nearby, hummingbirds will prioritize those. Weather, region, and local species behavior also influence visitation rates.

Does lavender scent repel hummingbirds?

Not directly, but strong fragrances can deter hummingbirds since they rely primarily on vision, not smell, to locate food. Highly aromatic plants like lavender may be less appealing than mild-scented alternatives, especially when superior options are available.