What to Plant with Magnolia Trees

Magnolia trees are a striking addition to any garden, with their large, showy flowers and glossy foliage. While they are beautiful on their own, pairing them with the right plants can create a stunning display. Here are some ideas for what to plant with magnolia trees.

1. Azaleas and Rhododendrons

Azaleas and rhododendrons complement magnolia trees perfectly, with their similar foliage and ability to bloom at the same time. The bright colors of these shrubs, from deep reds to soft pinks, provide a striking contrast against the white or pink magnolia flowers. Planting these together will create a beautiful, colorful display in your garden.

2. Hostas

Hostas are a great companion plant for magnolia trees. They provide a contrasting texture with their large, lush leaves and have a calming effect on the eye. They come in a variety of foliage colors, including green, yellow, and blue, which makes them a versatile choice for any garden. Plant them around the base of your magnolia tree to create a clean, polished look.

3. Ferns

Ferns are another great choice to plant under your magnolia tree. They provide a softer, more delicate texture and work well with the large, showy magnolia flowers. The delicate greenery of the ferns will create a peaceful and calming atmosphere, making it an inviting spot to sit and relax.

4. Evergreen Shrubs

Evergreen shrubs like holly, boxwood, and juniper make great companions for magnolia trees. They provide a year-round backdrop for the magnolia, giving it more visual interest throughout the year. Plus, the deep green foliage of evergreens contrasts nicely with the bright white or pink magnolia flowers.

5. Daylilies

Daylilies are a great choice to plant alongside your magnolia tree. They come in a variety of colors, from bright yellows to deep oranges, and bloom around the same time as magnolias. The bright colors of the daylilies stand out against the white or pink magnolia flowers, making them a stunning combination.

6. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are a classic choice for any garden, and they pair perfectly with magnolia trees. Their large clusters of flowers come in a variety of colors, from soft pinks to deep blues, and they bloom at the same time as magnolias. The bold, showy flowers of hydrangeas create a contrasting texture against the glossy magnolia leaves, making this a stunning combination.

Overall, planting the right companions with your magnolia tree is key to creating a garden that is both beautiful and cohesive. Whether you choose to plant azaleas, ferns, evergreens, daylilies, or hydrangeas, any of these choices will create a stunning display that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits your garden.