13 Plants to Grow Next to Hydrangeas for More Beautiful Blooms

Hydrangeas usually play a starring role in your garden, but figuring out which plants deserve the supporting role to your hydrangea plants can be a bit of a guessing game. Should you match the flower style with a lilac or butterfly bush, or opt for something totally unique? We asked experts to share the best companion plants to grow next to your hydrangeas for a healthier, showier bloom for seasons to come.

Tips for Choosing Hydrangea Companion Plants

Hydrangeas have such a dramatic presence, with their larger-than-life blooms and leaves. That means it tends to stand out in your landscape and needs something that balances out its boldness. "Look for plant varieties that add to, rather than distract from, the beauty of hydrangea," says Katie Tamony, chief marketing officer and trend spotter at Monrovia.

Choose plants that have similar light and water requirements

If the companion plant needs less water or more sun than your hydrangea plant, it'll be more difficult to help both of them thrive in that particular spot. You'll want to look for plants that like partial sun and consistent moisture—or a spot where your hydrangea plant can get its partial sun, but the companion plant enjoys more shade or sunlight.

Perfect your color palette

If you want to opt for a monochromatic color scheme—like a hydrangea with pink flowers—consider going a shade darker or lighter, and choosing a flower with a different texture. For instance, the spiky feathers of an astilbe flower will be the perfect foil for the dramatic, globe-like hydrangea blooms.

You can also go for a dramatic pairing of opposite colors—such as a hot pink petunias with the cool, soft green of a limelight hydrangea.

Keep size and scale in mind

Look at the final size of your hydrangea, and choose a companion plant that suits it in scale. For instance, a larger hydrangea plant like an oaktree should be flanked by other sizeable plants, such as small trees.

Choose what you like

While the plants below are known for looking beautiful and thriving next to hydrangea, if you're all-in on poppies, there's no reason not to plant those near your hydrangeas. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so there's no such thing as a bad pairing," says Lorraine Ballato, master gardener and author of Success With Hydrangeas, A Gardener's Guide. "What I like may be awful to your taste."