What to Surround Hostas With: Top Complementary Plants

Hostas, with their lush, green foliage and easy maintenance, are a staple in many gardens. But what should you put around them to create a harmonious and visually appealing landscape? Let's explore some ideas that will complement your hostas and enhance your garden's beauty.

First, consider the size and growth habit of your hostas. They come in various sizes, from tiny miniatures to large giants, and some spread wide while others stay compact. This diversity allows for creative planting combinations, but it's essential to choose companions that won't overpower or overshadow your hostas.

Complementary Plants for Shade

Hostas thrive in partial to full shade, making them excellent companions for other shade-loving plants. If your garden is mostly shaded, consider these options:

1. Ferns: With their delicate fronds and varied textures, ferns add a soft, airy contrast to the broad leaves of hostas. Some popular choices include the Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum 'Pictum') and the cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea).

Astilbes

Also known as false spirea, astilbes produce stunning plumes of flowers that dance in the breeze. Their delicate stems and feathery foliage contrast beautifully with hostas. Pair them with 'August Moon' or 'Patriot' hostas for a striking combination.

2. Hellebores: These evergreen perennials bloom in late winter to early spring, providing much-needed color during the dormant season. Their leathery leaves also contrast nicely with hostas. Try pairing them with 'Guacamole' or 'Golden Tiara' hostas.

Tiarella

Also known as foamflower, tiarella produces delicate white or pink flowers that sit atop arching stems. Their heart-shaped leaves add texture and contrast to hostas. 'Jeepers Creepers' and 'Wine & Roses' are popular varieties that pair well with hostas like 'June' or 'Stiletto'.

Ornamental Grasses and Hostas

Ornamental grasses add movement and texture to the garden and can complement hostas beautifully. Choose grasses with similar growth habits and colors to create a cohesive look.

1. Feather Reed Grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster'): This upright grass grows up to 8 feet tall and produces feathery plumes that sway in the wind. Its upright habit and golden color in fall make it an excellent companion for large hostas like 'Empress Wu' or 'Guacamole'.

Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alopecuroides)

With its cascading, wheat-colored plumes, fountain grass adds a soft, romantic touch to the garden. Pair it with smaller hostas like 'Pandora's Box' or 'Stiletto' for a charming combination.

2. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum): This native grass comes in various colors and heights, making it an excellent choice for pairing with hostas. Its airy inflorescences and upright habit complement hostas like 'Patriot' or 'August Moon'.

Carex

Sedge grasses, or carex, come in various sizes and colors, making them versatile companions for hostas. Their low-growing habit and narrow leaves contrast nicely with the broad leaves of hostas. 'Ice Dance' and 'Blue Zinger' are popular choices that pair well with hostas like 'June' or 'Golden Tiara'.

When planting companions for your hostas, consider their growth habits, colors, and textures. Choose plants that complement rather than compete with your hostas, and don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations. With a little creativity and planning, you can create a stunning garden that showcases your hostas and provides year-round interest.