Calla lilies (Zantedeschia spp.) are a genus of flowering plants native to southern Africa. They are popular garden plants due to their showy, trumpet-shaped flowers. Calla lilies come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. While calla lilies are not traditionally considered to be a hummingbird-attracting plant, there is some evidence to suggest that they can attract hummingbirds under certain conditions.
Calla lilies have a relatively low nectar production, which is not typically attractive to hummingbirds. However, if other nectar sources are scarce, hummingbirds may be willing to visit calla lilies for their nectar. Calla lilies also have a long, slender flower tube that can accommodate the hummingbird’s beak. Additionally, the bright colors of calla lilies may be attractive to hummingbirds.
If you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your garden, you may want to consider planting calla lilies. However, it is important to note that calla lilies are not a guaranteed hummingbird attractant. There are many other factors that can affect whether or not hummingbirds will visit your garden, such as the availability of other food sources and the presence of predators.
Do Calla Lilies Attract Hummingbirds?
Calla lilies are a popular garden plant, but do they attract hummingbirds? The answer is yes, but it depends on a few factors.
- Nectar production: Calla lilies have a relatively low nectar production, so they are not as attractive to hummingbirds as some other plants.
- Flower shape: The trumpet-shaped flowers of calla lilies are attractive to hummingbirds, but the long, slender flower tube can make it difficult for hummingbirds to reach the nectar.
- Color: Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, so the brightly colored flowers of calla lilies can be attractive to them.
- Other food sources: If there are other, more attractive food sources available, hummingbirds may not be interested in calla lilies.
- Predators: If there are predators present, hummingbirds may be less likely to visit calla lilies.
- Climate: Calla lilies are native to southern Africa, so they are not as well-adapted to colder climates. In colder climates, hummingbirds may not be as likely to visit calla lilies.
- Variety: There are many different varieties of calla lilies, and some varieties are more attractive to hummingbirds than others.
Overall, calla lilies are not a guaranteed hummingbird attractant, but they can be attractive to hummingbirds under certain conditions. If you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your garden, you may want to consider planting calla lilies. However, it is important to note that calla lilies are not a substitute for other, more reliable hummingbird attractants, such as bee balm, butterfly bush, and lantana.
Nectar production
Nectar is a sugary liquid produced by plants to attract pollinators. Hummingbirds are attracted to flowers with high nectar production. Calla lilies have a relatively low nectar production, so they are not as attractive to hummingbirds as some other plants.
This does not mean that calla lilies will never attract hummingbirds. If other nectar sources are scarce, hummingbirds may be willing to visit calla lilies for their nectar. However, calla lilies are not a reliable source of food for hummingbirds.
If you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your garden, you should plant flowers with high nectar production, such as bee balm, butterfly bush, and lantana. Calla lilies can be planted as a companion plant to these other flowers, but they should not be relied upon as the sole source of food for hummingbirds.
Flower shape
The trumpet-shaped flowers of calla lilies are attractive to hummingbirds because they are brightly colored and have a long, slender flower tube that can accommodate the hummingbird’s beak. However, the long, slender flower tube can also make it difficult for hummingbirds to reach the nectar.
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Facet 1: Calla lilies have a long, slender flower tube.
The long, slender flower tube of calla lilies is one of the things that makes them attractive to hummingbirds. Hummingbirds have long, slender beaks that are perfectly adapted for reaching the nectar at the bottom of flowers. However, the long, slender flower tube of calla lilies can also make it difficult for hummingbirds to reach the nectar.
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Facet 2: Calla lilies have brightly colored flowers.
The brightly colored flowers of calla lilies are another thing that makes them attractive to hummingbirds. Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, and the brightly colored flowers of calla lilies are sure to catch their attention.
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Facet 3: Calla lilies bloom in the summer.
Calla lilies bloom in the summer, which is when hummingbirds are most active. This means that calla lilies are a great source of food for hummingbirds during the summer months.
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Facet 4: Calla lilies are easy to grow.
Calla lilies are easy to grow, which makes them a great choice for gardeners of all levels. Calla lilies can be grown in a variety of climates, and they do not require a lot of care.
Overall, the trumpet-shaped flowers of calla lilies are attractive to hummingbirds, but the long, slender flower tube can make it difficult for hummingbirds to reach the nectar. However, calla lilies are still a good choice for hummingbird gardens because they are brightly colored, bloom in the summer, and are easy to grow.
Color
Hummingbirds are attracted to bright colors, which is why the brightly colored flowers of calla lilies can be attractive to them. Calla lilies come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and purple. The brightly colored flowers of calla lilies can help to attract hummingbirds to your garden.
In addition to their bright colors, calla lilies also have a long, slender flower tube that can accommodate the hummingbird’s beak. This makes it easy for hummingbirds to reach the nectar at the bottom of the flower.
If you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your garden, you should consider planting calla lilies. Calla lilies are easy to grow and can provide a valuable source of food for hummingbirds.
Other food sources
When it comes to attracting hummingbirds to your garden, the availability of other food sources is a key factor to consider. Hummingbirds are attracted to flowers that offer a high concentration of nectar, and they will typically choose the most rewarding flowers over those that offer less nectar. If there are other, more attractive food sources available, such as bee balm, butterfly bush, or lantana, hummingbirds may not be interested in calla lilies.
This is because hummingbirds are opportunistic feeders, and they will always choose the easiest and most rewarding food sources. If they can find a flower that offers a higher concentration of nectar with less effort, they will typically choose that flower over a calla lily.
Therefore, if you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your garden, it is important to plant a variety of flowers that offer a high concentration of nectar. Calla lilies can be a part of this mix, but they should not be relied upon as the sole source of food for hummingbirds.
Predators
The presence of predators is a key factor that can affect whether or not hummingbirds will visit calla lilies. Hummingbirds are small birds that are vulnerable to predation by a variety of animals, including hawks, owls, and cats. If hummingbirds perceive that there is a risk of predation, they may be less likely to visit calla lilies, even if the flowers are otherwise attractive.
There are a number of things that can make calla lilies more or less attractive to hummingbirds in the presence of predators. For example, calla lilies that are located in open areas are more likely to be visited by hummingbirds than calla lilies that are located in dense vegetation. This is because hummingbirds are more vulnerable to predation in open areas. Additionally, calla lilies that are surrounded by other plants that provide cover are more likely to be visited by hummingbirds than calla lilies that are isolated.
If you are interested in attracting hummingbirds to your garden, it is important to be aware of the potential for predation. You can take steps to reduce the risk of predation by planting calla lilies in areas that are protected from predators. You can also plant calla lilies in groups, which will provide hummingbirds with more cover.
Climate
The climate of a region has a significant impact on the types of plants and animals that can survive there. Calla lilies are native to southern Africa, which has a warm, temperate climate. Calla lilies are not as well-adapted to colder climates, and they may not be able to survive in areas with freezing temperatures.
Hummingbirds are also affected by the climate. Hummingbirds are small birds that have a high metabolism. They need to eat frequently to maintain their energy levels. In colder climates, hummingbirds may have difficulty finding enough food to eat. This is because many of the flowers that hummingbirds feed on are not available in colder climates.
The combination of these factors means that hummingbirds are less likely to visit calla lilies in colder climates. Calla lilies are not as well-adapted to colder climates, and they may not be able to survive in areas with freezing temperatures. Hummingbirds also have difficulty finding enough food to eat in colder climates. As a result, hummingbirds are less likely to visit calla lilies in colder climates.
This understanding is important for gardeners who want to attract hummingbirds to their gardens. If you live in a colder climate, you should choose plants that are well-adapted to your climate and that will provide a reliable source of food for hummingbirds. Calla lilies may not be the best choice for gardeners in colder climates.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about whether calla lilies attract hummingbirds, along with their answers:
Question 1: Do calla lilies attract hummingbirds?
Answer: Yes, calla lilies can attract hummingbirds, but they are not as reliable as other hummingbird-attracting plants. Calla lilies have a relatively low nectar production, and their flowers can be difficult for hummingbirds to reach. However, if other nectar sources are scarce, hummingbirds may be willing to visit calla lilies.
Question 2: What types of calla lilies are most attractive to hummingbirds?
Answer: Calla lilies with brightly colored flowers are most attractive to hummingbirds. Some of the most popular varieties for attracting hummingbirds include ‘Black Magic’, ‘Captain Tom’, and ‘Mango’.
Question 3: How can I make my calla lilies more attractive to hummingbirds?
Answer: There are a few things you can do to make your calla lilies more attractive to hummingbirds. First, plant them in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Second, water them regularly, especially during hot weather. Third, fertilize them monthly with a balanced fertilizer. Finally, deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth.
Question 4: What other plants can I plant to attract hummingbirds to my garden?
Answer: There are many other plants that you can plant to attract hummingbirds to your garden. Some of the most popular choices include bee balm, butterfly bush, lantana, and salvia.
Question 5: What are some tips for attracting hummingbirds to my garden?
Answer: Here are a few tips for attracting hummingbirds to your garden:
Plant a variety of hummingbird-attracting plants.Provide a water source, such as a birdbath or shallow dish.Avoid using pesticides and herbicides.Create a sheltered area in your garden where hummingbirds can rest and nest.
Summary: Calla lilies can attract hummingbirds, but they are not as reliable as other hummingbird-attracting plants. By following the tips above, you can make your calla lilies more attractive to hummingbirds and enjoy their beauty in your garden.
Tips to Attract Hummingbirds with Calla Lilies
While calla lilies are not the most reliable hummingbird attractant, there are several things you can do to increase their appeal to these fascinating birds.
Tip 1: Choose the Right Varieties
Not all calla lilies are equally attractive to hummingbirds. Opt for varieties with brightly colored flowers, such as ‘Black Magic’, ‘Captain Tom’, and ‘Mango’. These cultivars tend to produce more nectar and have flower shapes that are easier for hummingbirds to access.
Tip 2: Plant in a Sunny Location
Calla lilies thrive in full sun to partial shade. However, for maximum hummingbird attraction, plant them in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. This will help the plants produce more nectar.
Tip 3: Water Regularly
Calla lilies require regular watering, especially during hot weather. Water the plants deeply at the base, avoiding the leaves. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Tip 4: Fertilize Monthly
Fertilize calla lilies monthly with a balanced fertilizer. This will help the plants produce more flowers and nectar.
Tip 5: Deadhead Spent Flowers
Deadheading spent flowers encourages the plant to produce new blooms. This will help to keep your calla lilies attractive to hummingbirds throughout the blooming season.
Tip 6: Create a Hummingbird-Friendly Environment
In addition to planting calla lilies, you can create a hummingbird-friendly environment by providing a water source, such as a birdbath or shallow dish. Avoid using pesticides and herbicides, as these chemicals can harm hummingbirds.
By following these tips, you can increase the likelihood of attracting hummingbirds to your calla lilies.
Summary: While calla lilies are not the most reliable hummingbird attractant, they can be a part of a hummingbird-friendly garden. By choosing the right varieties, planting in a sunny location, watering regularly, fertilizing monthly, deadheading spent flowers, and creating a hummingbird-friendly environment, you can increase the appeal of your calla lilies to these fascinating birds.
Conclusion
Calla lilies can attract hummingbirds, but they are not as reliable as other hummingbird-attracting plants. However, by choosing the right varieties, planting in a sunny location, watering regularly, fertilizing monthly, deadheading spent flowers, and creating a hummingbird-friendly environment, you can increase the appeal of your calla lilies to these fascinating birds.
If you are serious about attracting hummingbirds to your garden, you should plant a variety of hummingbird-attracting plants, including calla lilies. You should also provide a water source and avoid using pesticides and herbicides. By following these tips, you can create a hummingbird haven in your own backyard.