Hydrangeas, particularly the larger mophead and panicle varieties, form a strong structural and visual mid-layer in the landscape. Pairing them with lower-growing understory shrubs creates a lush, textured effect that fills the vertical space beautifully. Excellent choices include the various cultivars of Azalea and Rhododendron, which share the hydrangea's preference for moist, well-drained, acidic soil. The broad, evergreen leaves of many rhododendrons provide superb year-round structure and contrast with the larger, deciduous leaves of the hydrangea. For a different texture, consider Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens). Its small, dense, evergreen leaves and ability to be shaped formally offer a striking architectural contrast to the hydrangea’s billowy, informal habit, making each plant stand out more distinctly.
The soft, voluminous blooms and broad leaves of hydrangeas pair exceptionally well with the vertical, fine-textured, and moving form of ornamental grasses. Grasses introduce an element of motion with the breeze and a lightness that prevents the hydrangea bed from looking too static or heavy. For partial shade conditions compatible with many hydrangeas, consider Hakonechloa macra (Japanese Forest Grass), especially its golden cultivars, which cascade gracefully and illuminate darker corners. For sunnier locations that suit Panicle Hydrangeas (H. paniculata), the upright, feathery plumes of Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ (Feather Reed Grass) provide a stunning structural contrast. The grasses' wispy seed heads and warm tan winter color extend garden interest long after hydrangea blooms have faded.
Perennials are ideal for planting at the feet of hydrangeas, covering the bare "legs" often left as shrubs mature, and providing a succession of color. Hostas are a classic companion, with their diverse foliage offering endless options for contrast in leaf size, shape, and color—from large, blue-green leaves to small, chartreuse, or variegated forms. For a bold textural statement, the large, heart-shaped leaves of Ligularia hold their own next to hydrangea foliage and thrive in similar cool, moist soils. To extend the bloom season, incorporate shade-tolerant perennials like Astilbe, with its feathery plumes in shades of pink, red, and white, or Heuchera (Coral Bells), which provides spectacular foliage color in shades of purple, lime, and silver throughout the entire growing season.
Since many hydrangeas are late to leaf out and don't bloom until mid-summer, the space around them is a perfect canvas for early spring bulbs. These plants grow, flower, and begin to die back before hydrangeas demand the spotlight and full canopy. Daffodils (Narcissus) and Tulips (Tulipa) provide a vibrant burst of spring color. For a more naturalistic look, native spring ephemerals like Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) or Woodland Phlox (Phlox divaricata) are excellent choices. They flourish in the dappled spring sunlight, bloom profusely, and then recede as the hydrangea's foliage expands to shade the ground, creating a harmonious relationship with no competition.
