Peonies burst into life in spring, marking the beginning of our borders’ best months. Dramatic as they are, the big blooms pair well with a number of flowers. For a truly splendid springtime display extending into summer, an expert has recommended the best companions that will complement your peonies and create a vibrant, joyful garden.

Laura Janney, an award-winning landscape designer and founder of The Inspired Garden, says: “Keep in mind peonies are quite large perennials, so put them in the back or mid layer. A nice bonus is that after blooming, they provide beautiful foliage and can be a lovely backdrop.”

Plants to grow with peonies for a beautiful spring and summer display

Hydrangeas

As you plot out your garden for the coming warmer months, don’t overlook the beloved hydrangea. These sizable shrubs flaunt hefty, eye-catching blooms in hues of from blue and pink to green and white.

“Hydrangeas work very well because just when the peonies are done blooming, the hydrangeas will start, so you will always have something going in a similar shape,” explained Janney.

Daffodils

Daffodils serve as terrific partners for peonies too, introducing some of the earliest bursts of colour in the garden towards the end of winter or the brink of spring.

“Bulbs are great because they don’t interfere with the peony’s root system,” pointed out Nicole Dillon, owner of Breemar Flower Farm in Ashland. Moreover, they are resistant to deer, if this happens to be an issue for you.

Dillon suggested planting tulips, crocus, and hyacinth alongside peonies for a vibrant display.

Lilacs

Another perennial spring flower is the lilac for its clusters of small, fragrant blooms in hues of white, purple, and pink.

“Lilacs will bloom first and then will be done so the peonies can take centre stage,” said Janney. She advises positioning peonies in front of lilac plantings to conceal the bare lower branches of the taller shrubs.

Available in a range of colours besides the classic rich purple-blue, salvia pairs well with peonies. Both plants require similar growing conditions, explained Janney, and as salvia blooms after the tailend of peonies, its tall spikes obscure spent flowers.

Catmint

Shorter types of catmint, a perennial ornamental herb known for upright spikes of purple blooms, are another suitable companion for peonies. “The low-growing varietals can be placed at the front of a border with a peony behind it. The continuous summer colour and light purple flowers make a nice contrast with the peony’s striking foliage,” she added.

Foxglove

“Foxglove is another charming, whimsical flower that grows nicely with peonies and gives that cottage vibe,” Janney noted. However, pet owners should be aware that foxglove is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, and exercise caution when considering this plant.

Bearded irises

For Janney, the classic pairing of bearded irises and peonies is another favourite. These two plants bloom simultaneously each spring, so it’s important to match the iris colours with the peonies you’ve planted.

Fortunately, bearded irises offer a broad spectrum of hues and bicolor varieties.

Delphinium

Also known as larkspur, delphiniums are another excellent companion. It produces tall clusters of vibrant flowers in spring and summer, making it perfect for planting behind your peonies.

Ideally, both plants will flower at the same time, but even if they don’t, Dillon points out that delphinium’s fernlike foliage provides a stunning backdrop for blooming peonies.

However, bear in mind that delphinium is poisonous to humans, dogs, cats, and horses when deciding where to plant it.