What to Plant with Hostas for Winter

Hostas, with their lush, green foliage and varied patterns, are a staple in many gardens. While they're known for their summer beauty, they can also provide interest in the winter landscape. When choosing plants to pair with hostas for winter, consider those with attractive bark, berries, or evergreen foliage. Here are some excellent companions to enhance your winter garden.

Hostas are hardy plants that can tolerate a range of conditions, making them versatile in garden design. By strategically planting complementary species, you can create a winter garden that's both beautiful and functional.

Evergreen Companions for Year-Round Interest

Evergreen plants provide structure and color to the winter garden. When selecting evergreens to pair with hostas, consider their size, shape, and texture.

Evergreens can also provide shelter for hostas, protecting them from harsh winter winds and helping to retain snow, which can act as an insulating blanket.

Conifers

Conifers, such as pines, spruces, and junipers, offer a range of sizes, shapes, and colors. Their needles provide a striking contrast to the broad leaves of hostas. Plant smaller conifers in front of or among hostas for a layered effect, or use larger ones as a backdrop.

For example, the dwarf Alberta spruce (Picea glauca 'Conica') grows slowly to a height of about 12 feet, making it an excellent companion for hostas. Its dense, pyramidal shape provides a striking contrast to the broad, rounded leaves of hostas like 'Patriot' or 'August Moon'.

Evergreen Shrubs

Evergreen shrubs like rhododendrons, hollies, and boxwoods can also provide year-round interest. Their varied foliage colors and textures complement the smooth, often variegated leaves of hostas.

For instance, the American holly (Ilex opaca) offers glossy, dark green leaves and vibrant red berries that contrast beautifully with the often blue-green or gold-veined leaves of hostas like 'Guacamole' or 'Gold Standard'. Plus, its prickly leaves can deter deer from snacking on your hostas.

Plants with Attractive Winter Bark

Many trees and shrubs develop attractive bark that adds interest to the winter landscape. Planting these near hostas can create a striking contrast and provide visual appeal even when the hostas are dormant.

When selecting plants with attractive bark, consider their mature size and growth habit to ensure they complement, rather than overwhelm, your hostas.

Paperbark Maple

The paperbark maple (Acer griseum) is a small tree with stunning, cinnamon-colored bark that peels in thin sheets, revealing layers of orange and cream beneath. Its delicate, lacy leaves contrast nicely with the robust foliage of hostas.

Plant paperbark maples near hostas like 'Golden Tiara' or 'June' to create a striking contrast between the warm tones of the bark and the cool, often gold-veined leaves of the hostas.

River Birch

The river birch (Betula nigra) is a medium-sized tree with attractive, peeling bark that ranges in color from white to pale yellow. Its delicate, triangular leaves provide dappled shade that hostas appreciate in summer.

River birches can be planted as a backdrop to hostas, providing both shade and visual interest. Consider pairing them with hostas like 'Blue Angel' or 'Big Daddy' for a striking contrast between the warm tones of the bark and the cool, often blue-green leaves of the hostas.

Berried Evergreens for Winter Interest and Wildlife

Evergreens that produce berries provide food for birds and other wildlife throughout the winter. Planting these near hostas can create a diverse and dynamic winter garden.

When selecting berried evergreens, consider their size, shape, and the type of berries they produce. Some berries, like those of hollies, are spiny and can deter deer, while others, like those of juniper, are less palatable to wildlife.

Holly

Hollies are broadleaf evergreens that produce vibrant red, orange, or yellow berries that contrast beautifully with the often blue-green or gold-veined leaves of hostas. Their prickly leaves also deter deer from snacking on your hostas.

For example, the 'Winterberry' holly (Ilex verticillata) is a deciduous holly that produces an abundance of bright red berries in winter. Plant it near hostas like 'Patriot' or 'August Moon' for a striking contrast between the warm tones of the berries and the cool, often blue-green leaves of the hostas.

Juniper

Junipers are conifers that produce a variety of berry-like cones that attract birds and other wildlife. Their varied foliage colors and textures complement the smooth, often variegated leaves of hostas.

The 'Blue Star' juniper (Juniperus squamata 'Blue Star') is a compact, low-growing juniper with silver-blue foliage that contrasts nicely with the often blue-green or gold-veined leaves of hostas. Its berry-like cones provide food for wildlife and add a touch of texture to the winter garden.

By strategically planting these winter-interest plants with your hostas, you can create a garden that's beautiful and functional year-round. So, don't let the cold weather deter you from enjoying your garden. Embrace the winter months and create a garden that's as vibrant in December as it is in June.