Plant Companions for Hydrangeas

Introduction

Hydrangeas are beloved for their big, showy blooms in shades of pink, blue, and white. However, choosing the right plant companions can help enhance the beauty of your hydrangeas and create a complementary garden design. Here are some ideas for what to plant next to your hydrangeas.

Shrubs

One great companion plant for hydrangeas is the azalea. Both of these shrubs bloom in vibrant shades of pink, red, and white, and they share similar growing conditions, such as acidic soil and partial shade. Other shrub companions for hydrangeas include the compact evergreen boxwood, which provides year-round foliage interest, and the fragrant mock orange, which blooms with white or pale pink flowers in the late spring.

Perennials

When choosing perennials to plant next to hydrangeas, consider their bloom time and color. For example, the shade-loving hosta offers a striking contrast with its bold green and variegated leaves. Other perennials to consider include the delicate-looking but tough-as-nails bleeding heart, the tall and spiky foxglove, and the fall-blooming asters.

Vines

Vines can be a great way to add vertical interest to your garden design and complement hydrangeas. The climbing hydrangea is an obvious choice, but other options include the fragrant honeysuckle, which blooms in shades of pink, yellow, and white, and the trumpet vine, which attracts hummingbirds with its bright red or orange flowers.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers can help fill in gaps between plants and provide a lush carpet of foliage. Some good options for planting next to hydrangeas include the low-growing Asiatic jasmine, which features shiny evergreen leaves and fragrant white flowers, and the creeping thyme, which releases a pleasant aroma when crushed underfoot. Another option is the shade-tolerant and drought-resistant creeping phlox, which produces a carpet of brightly colored blooms in the spring.

Trees

Large trees can provide shade and privacy for your hydrangeas, but it's important to choose trees that won't compete with the shrubs for nutrients and water. Small ornamental trees, such as the dogwood or the crape myrtle, can provide a complementary backdrop for your hydrangeas without overshadowing them. Fruit trees, such as cherries or plums, can also provide seasonal interest and attract pollinators to your garden.

Conclusion

Incorporating complementary plant companions for your hydrangeas can help enhance their beauty and create a well-designed garden. When choosing what to plant next to your hydrangeas, consider factors such as color, bloom time, growing conditions, and overall garden design. Experiment with different combinations of shrubs, perennials, vines, groundcovers, and trees until you find the perfect companions for your hydrangeas.