The Gorgeous Flower You'll Want To Plant In September To Attract Hummingbirds

Planting red valerian, also known as Jupiter's beard (Centranthus ruber), this September is a great way to attract gorgeous hummingbirds to your yard through the fall and winter. This beautiful plant, a perennial in USDA zones 4 to 9, blooms from summer to early fall with red to hot-pink showstopping flowers that pollinators can't get enough of, including hummingbirds and butterflies. Hummingbirds are especially attracted to the color and shape of the tubular flowers that are rich in nectar.

Native to the Mediterranean region, these plants thrive in warmer climates, making them an especially good choice to help hummingbirds during migration season in the southern regions of the United States. As many hummingbird species, like ruby-throated hummingbirds, migrate to Central and South America for the winter, they'll be inclined to stop in your yard to refuel. Then, you can look forward to seeing them again during their spring migration. It's important to note that red valerian is listed as invasive in Oregon and part of California and should not be planted there.

Red valerian can be planted in the fall, in the spring, and even during winter warm spells. It's a relatively low-maintenance plant that's tolerant of a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils, making it an excellent plant for beginner gardeners to get started. Plant each red valerian about 12 to 18 inches apart. It is important, though, that the soil be well-draining. The soil should be kept consistently moist while the roots get established, but red valerian is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. This plant is also tolerant of drought. After the roots have been established, you should need to water it only during dry spells.

Since September is a bit close to the end of red valerian's blooming season, deadheading spent flowers is a great way to encourage continuous blooming. Extending the blooming season as long as you can means attracting hummingbirds for months to come. Red valerian thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can grow in infertile soil, so fertilization is optional. If you choose, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to support healthy growth and blooming. Under the right conditions, the plants will grow 24 to 32 inches tall.