Big, bold, and beautiful, hydrangeas make a statement in any garden. These showy shrubs come in a variety of colors and bloom times, making them a versatile addition to any landscape. When it comes to finding the perfect plants to pair with your hydrangeas, the options are endless. Here are a few of our favorite planting companions for these stunning shrubs.

What To Plant with Hydrangeas

Azaleas

Azaleas are a perfect companion plant for hydrangeas because they share the same soil requirements. Both flowers prefer acidic soils with a pH level below 7.0. They also bloom around the same time in late spring to early summer. Azaleas come in a wide range of colors including white, pink, purple, and red which makes them a versatile plant to pair with hydrangeas.

Hostas

Hostas are a type of shade-loving perennial that make for a good companion plant to hydrangeas. One benefit of planting hostas with hydrangeas is that the large hosta leaves will help shade the ground and retain moisture around the base of the hydrangea plants. This is especially helpful if you live in an area with hot summers. Another reason to consider pairing these two plants is that they have similar cultural requirements. Both flowers prefer partial sun to full shade and well-drained soils.

Ferns

Ferns are another good option for planting under or around hydrangeas. Ferns thrive in similar shady, moist conditions as hydrangeas. They also don’t require a lot of upkeep which makes them a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners. In addition, ferns come in many different varieties so you can easily find one that will complement the color of your hydrangea blooms.

Boxwood

Boxwoods are evergreen shrubs that make for lovely hedges or foundation plantings. They are often used in formal gardens and their tidy appearance pairs well with the big, showy blooms of hydrangeas. Boxwoods also like acidic soils although they can tolerate neutral to slightly alkaline soils better than hydrangeAs long as the soil is well-drained, boxwoods will do well in either full sun or partial shade locations.

Swedish Ivy

With its trailing habit and striking foliage, Swedish ivy is a great option for adding color and contrast to your hydrangea garden. Plant Swedish ivy at the base of your hydrangea bushes to fill in empty spaces and add interest. This evergreen groundcover is easy to care for and will thrive in partial shade.

Foxglove

Tall and slender, foxgloves add vertical interest to any garden. These beautiful plants are perfect for pairing with hydrangeas, as they share a similar prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Foxgloves also come in a variety of colors, so you’re sure to find one that complements your hydrangeas perfectly.

Heuchera

One of the most popular plants for shady gardens, heuchera is an excellent choice for pairing with hydrangeas. These low-maintenance plants come in countless colors and varieties, making them easy to find one that coordinates well with your other plants. Heuchera also tolerates drought and salt well, making it a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of landscapes.

Astilbe

A favorite of shade gardens, astilbe is another ideal plant for pairing with hydrangeas. These compact perennials produce plumes of delicate flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, and white. Astilbe prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.

Pansies

A cheerful addition to any garden, pansies are perfect for planting with hydrangeas. These beautiful flowers come in almost every color imaginable and have the added bonus of being edible! Pansies prefer cool weather and will flower best when planted in full sun to partial shade.

Sweet Potato Vine

A vigorous grower, sweet potato vine is an excellent choice for covering large areas quickly. This fast-growing vine comes in both green and variegated varieties and prefer full sun to partial shade. Plant sweet potato vine at the base of your hydrangea bushes to create a living mulch that will help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Conclusion:

When it comes to finding plants to pair with your hydrangeas, the options are endless! From trailing groundcovers to tall flowering plants, there’s sure to be a plant that will complement your hydrangeas beautifully.

Be sure to consider the amount of sun and water each plant needs before making your final selections. With a little planning (and some trial and error), you’ll be on your way to creating a stunning garden that you can enjoy for years to come!