What to Plant Between Hostas

Hostas, with their lush, green leaves and varied patterns, are a staple in many gardens. But what about the spaces between them? These areas can be transformed into vibrant, complementary displays with the right plant choices. Let's explore some options that thrive when planted between hostas.

When selecting plants to accompany your hostas, consider factors like light requirements, growth rate, and height. This will help you create a harmonious and balanced garden. Here are some categories of plants that pair well with hostas, along with specific recommendations.

Low-Growing Ground Covers

Ground covers are excellent for filling in spaces between hostas, helping to suppress weeds, and adding texture to your garden.

One standout option is Lamium maculatum, also known as deadnettle. This shade-loving perennial produces spikes of pink or white flowers and has attractive, heart-shaped leaves. It's a great choice for adding color and contrast to your garden.

Creeping Jenny

Aurinia saxatilis, or creeping jenny, is a low-growing perennial that produces clusters of bright yellow flowers. It thrives in partial shade and well-draining soil, making it an excellent companion for hostas.

Creeping jenny is a fast spreader, so it's perfect for covering larger areas between hostas. Plus, its vibrant yellow blooms provide a stunning contrast to the green hosta leaves.

Vinca

Vinca minor, or periwinkle, is an evergreen ground cover that produces clusters of purple or blue flowers. It's shade-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for filling in spaces between hostas.

Vinca is also known for its ability to suppress weeds, which can help keep your garden looking neat and tidy. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round interest, even when hostas are dormant.

Bulbs for Seasonal Color

Bulbs can add pops of color to your garden in the spring and summer, complementing the hostas' summer growth and fall foliage.

Consider planting Tulipa (tulips) or Narcissus (daffodils) in the fall. These bulbs will bloom in the spring, providing a vibrant display before the hostas take center stage. Once the bulbs have finished blooming, their foliage will die back, allowing the hostas to fill in the space.

Crocus

Crocus bulbs are another excellent option for adding early spring color to your garden. These small, cup-shaped flowers come in a variety of colors and bloom before the hostas emerge from the ground.

Crocus bulbs are small, making them easy to plant between hostas. Plus, their early blooming time means they won't compete with the hostas for nutrients or sunlight.

Allium

For summer blooms, consider planting Allium bulbs. These produce tall, spherical flowers that add height and drama to your garden.

Alliums come in various sizes and colors, so you can choose ones that complement your hostas. They also attract pollinators, which can help support a healthy ecosystem in your garden.

Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses can add texture, movement, and height to your garden, providing a striking contrast to the broad, flat leaves of hostas.

One great option is Carex morrowii, or Japanese sedge. This grass has narrow, evergreen leaves that provide year-round interest. It grows well in partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil conditions.

Fountain Grass

Pennisetum, or fountain grass, produces arching, cascading plumes of flowers that add movement and texture to your garden. It's a warm-season grass, so it pairs well with hostas that are at their best in summer.

Fountain grass comes in various sizes, so you can choose ones that complement the height of your hostas. Plus, its airy plumes can help soften the look of larger hosta leaves.

Miscanthus

Miscanthus, or maiden grass, is a tall, upright grass that produces feathery plumes of flowers in the fall. It's a tough, low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Maiden grass adds height and structure to your garden, making it an excellent choice for pairing with larger hosta varieties. Its feathery plumes also provide a striking contrast to the broad leaves of hostas.

When planting between hostas, remember that less is often more. Choose plants that complement, rather than compete with, your hostas. This will help you create a harmonious, balanced garden that's a pleasure to behold. So, get out there and start experimenting with different plant combinations. Your garden will thank you!