What to Plant Next to Hostas

Hostas, those beautiful, shade-loving perennials, are a staple in many gardens. With their attractive foliage and easy care, it's no wonder they're so popular. But once you've planted your hostas, you might be wondering, "What should I grow next to hostas?" The answer lies in choosing plants that complement their shade tolerance, height, and growth habits. Let's explore some excellent companions for your hostas.

First, consider the shade tolerance of your hostas. Most varieties thrive in partial to full shade, making them perfect for planting under trees or along north-facing walls. When selecting companion plants, look for those that also prefer or tolerate shade. This will ensure a harmonious garden that requires minimal sunlight and water.

Shade-Loving Perennials

Shade-loving perennials are an excellent choice for planting near hostas. They share similar light requirements and can create a lush, verdant garden bed.

One standout companion is the Astilbe, or false spirea. Astilbes produce stunning, feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. They prefer partial to full shade and thrive in moist, well-drained soil - conditions that hostas also enjoy. Plant astilbes near the front of your border, as they typically grow between 12 to 36 inches tall, depending on the variety.

Astilbe Varieties

For a compact option, consider 'Purple Flame' astilbe, which grows up to 18 inches tall and produces deep purple plumes. For a taller variety, 'Fanal' astilbe can reach up to 36 inches and displays vibrant red-pink flowers.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are another fantastic companion for hostas. They come in various sizes and flower types, ensuring there's a suitable option for every garden. Most hydrangeas prefer partial shade, making them an ideal match for hostas.

For a smaller hydrangea, try the 'Annabelle' hydrangea, which grows up to 3 feet tall and produces large, white flower clusters. If you have the space, the 'Invincibelle Spirit' hydrangea can reach up to 6 feet tall and displays attractive, pinkish-white blooms.

Ground Covers and Ferns

Ground covers and ferns can help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and add texture to your garden bed. Many of these plants also prefer the shade that hostas thrive in.

One excellent ground cover option is the Lamium maculatum, or spotted dead-nettle. This low-growing perennial produces small, white or pink flowers and prefers partial to full shade. It's an excellent choice for filling in gaps between hostas and other taller plants.

Lamium maculatum Varieties

For a white-flowering variety, try 'Album' lamium, which grows up to 12 inches tall. For a pink-flowering option, 'Roseum' lamium can reach up to 18 inches in height.

Ferns

Ferns are another excellent ground cover option for shady gardens. They come in various sizes and can add a lush, tropical feel to your garden bed. The Polystichum acrostichoides, or Christmas fern, is an excellent choice for planting near hostas. It prefers partial to full shade and grows up to 3 feet tall, making it a versatile option for various garden settings.

When planting companions near your hostas, consider their growth habits and sizes. Taller plants should be placed at the back of the border, while shorter plants can be positioned in front. This will create a sense of depth and help guide the eye through your garden bed. Additionally, vary the textures and colors of your companion plants to create visual interest and contrast with your hostas.

In the end, the key to successful companion planting is choosing plants that share similar light, water, and soil requirements. By selecting shade-loving perennials, ground covers, and ferns, you can create a harmonious garden that complements your hostas and thrives in the same conditions. So go ahead, experiment with different combinations, and enjoy the beauty of your new, lush garden.