Companion planting, the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit, can sometimes be a bit tricky, especially when one plant offers most of the partnership advantages. 

However, when it comes to hydrangeas, four certain garden plants stand out as ideal companions.

Hydrangeas, with their graceful appearance, are easy to pair with other plants. The key consideration is whether the chosen plants will thrive in the same environment as hydrangeas.

While there are countless combinations for hydrangeas, gardening enthusiasts John Toepfer and Susan Brandt at Blooming Secrets have shared a few plants that hydrangeas “will love” and that will help them to “grow stronger” and “thrive”.

1. Hostas

Hostas and hydrangeas make a classic combination. These plants flourish incredibly well around the base of hydrangeas, both preferring part-shade conditions and slightly acidic soil.

According to the experts, hostas are “one of the best plants for low-light areas” and serve as a “natural foil” to protect the flowers of hydrangeas.

2. Perennial geraniums

Perennial geraniums, also known as cranesbill or hardy geraniums, come in purple, pink, or white and resemble the annual geranium many gardeners are familiar with.

Geraniums are a reliable classic garden plant that requires little maintenance and is largely self-sufficient once established.

These are “great companion plants for hydrangeas” as they “thrive in the same conditions”. They both need soil that is moist and well-drained, but not too wet.

3. Ferns 

Ferns make really nice additions to a hydrangea bed and they are “one of the easiest plants to maintain”.

There are many different types of ferns available. Some ferns can tolerate more sun, but most ferns love deep shade.

Ferns are a “great companion” for hydrangeas as they have similar needs, but also “add a different texture and pattern” to the garden.

4. Azaleas

Azaleas and hydrangeas make a great combination in the garden. They both love the same growing conditions of acidic, well-draining soil, with lots of shade.

These plants match blue hydrangea’s preference for slightly acidic soil too. Avoid the pink ones, or allow them to turn blue, as they will not do well with acid-loving azaleas and prefer more alkaline soil.

These plants provide gardens with “season-long flowers” when paired with a hydrangea which typically blooms all summer long.

Azaleas are not bothered by insects or diseases, making good companions for any acid-loving plants like hydrangeas.