The Maltese Cross is a tall, prolific and stunning perennial boasting clusters of red flowers that last most of summer. The longevity of the flower is advantageous considering hummingbirds and other pollinators love them.

Maltese Cross

Although this beautiful red perennial can now be seen in many gardens, the ones in my yard are extra special. The precious seeds travelled with my great grandparents when they emigrated from the Ukraine to Canada in the early 1900’s. I remember my grandmother sharing with me that the flowers came from “the old country.” She had them growing behind her house where they could be easily seen feeding her favourite hummingbirds from the dining room window. Settlers didn’t have cargo space for many luxury items, if any. Many women brought seeds with them because if they grew it was a friendly reminder of the home they left behind.

Hummingbird feeders have long since been determined detrimental to the health of hummingbirds. The good news is there are other, healthier ways to attract the little lovelies to a yard space. I never put hummingbird feeders out, yet each year my yard in northern Alberta attracts many of these interesting little birds. It is a favourite past time of mine to watch the birds while enjoying my deck throughout the summer months. Paired with the delphiniums in one of my perennial beds, hummingbirds and bees visit all summer.

Connection

My grandmother loved the colour red and she loved hummingbirds. I’m happy to be able to cultivate a space that supports healthy pollinator populations as well as connect to an interesting family history while spending time with the flowers and the birds.

Which flowers have you planted that the pollinators love? Please share in the comments below.

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Be well!