Planting for
the Planet
Native Plants and Birds
Birds rely on a diverse range of plants for nesting and food. The plants also rely on the birds to spread their seeds and pollen allowing them to reproduce!
Jewelweed
Impatiens capensis
The bright colours and tubular shape of these flowers are the perfect food source for hummingbirds. They also attract a diverse range of insect pollinators!
Mature size: 5ft height
Sun exposure: shade-part shade
Soil type: clay/loam/sand, abundance of organic material, moist-wet
​
("Plant Database: Impatiens Capensis", 2015)
​
Buy here:
​
Photo Retrieved From: Wisconsin Horticulture
Fireweed
Chamaenerion angustifolium
Other than supporting diverse hummingbird species and bees, this flower makes delicious jelly and tea for humans to enjoy!
​
Mature size: 5ft
Sun exposure: Full-partial sun
Soil type: moist-slightly soggy
​
("Fireweed Native Wildflower", n.d.)
​
Buy here:
​
Photo Retrived From: Vermont Wildflower Farm
Wild Columbine
Aquilegia canadensis
This species is a favourite to hummingbirds who extract the nectar with their long beaks. This native flower is the perfect addition to add colour to your garden (and rabbits don't like the taste of it)!
​
Mature size: 2ft height
Sun exposure: full-partial sun
Soil type: loam, dry-medium moisture
​
("Wild Columbine", n.d.)
​
Buy here:
http://onplants.ca/shop/aquilegia-canadensis/
​
Photo Retrieved From: Ontario Native Plants
Cardinal Flower
Lobelia cardinalis
​
This beautiful species is another great addition for hummingbird lovers! The moisture and nutrient requirements for this plant make it the perfect addition to a rain garden.
Mature size: 4ft
Sun exposure: full sun – partial shade
Soil type: loam/organic, nutrient-rich, medium-wet moisture
​
("Cardinal Flower", n.d.)
​
Buy here:
http://onplants.ca/shop/lobelia-cardinalis/
​
Photo Retrieved From: Roads End Naturalist
Northern Blue Flag
Iris versicolor
​
This species is another great choice for a wet environment including a rain garden or pond! It can spread quickly brightening your backyard with its beautiful blue and white flowers.
​
Mature size: 3ft
Sun exposure: full sun – partial shade
Soil type: loam/organic, medium-wet moisture
​
("Blue Flag Iris", n.d.)
​
Buy here: http://onplants.ca/shop/iris-versicolor/
​
Photo Retrieved From: Chicago Bird Alliance Instagram
​
Downy Serviceberry/Juneberry
Amelanchier arborea
If you are looking to expand the nature in your backyard with more than just a garden, this native tree is for you! This tree attracts a range of birds including, but not limited too, the American Robin, Baltimore Oriole, Eastern Bluebird and the Northern Cardinal!
​
Mature size: 25ft height
Sun exposure: full-partial sun
Soil type: clay/loam/sand, moist, well-drained
​
("Amelanchier Arborea (Downy Serviceberry)", n.d.)
​
Buy here: http://onplants.ca/shop/aquilegia-canadensis/
​
Photo Retrieved From: North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
