From our point of view as daylilies (Hemerocallis), we are robust, clump-forming perennials. Our primary contribution to the garden is our spectacular, albeit often short-lived, floral display. Each of our individual flowers lasts only a day, but we produce them in such profusion that the overall effect is one of continuous, vibrant color for weeks. Our foliage is a dense, grass-like mound that serves as a foundational green element even when we are not in bloom. Below the soil, our roots are fibrous and form dense masses, effectively helping to stabilize the soil. We are remarkably adaptable, thriving in full sun to light shade, and we prefer well-drained soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. Our key need from a companion is to have our bare "legs" – the lower stems and soil base – concealed, as this area can become unsightly later in the season.
When choosing companions, we seek plants that complement our growth habits without competing aggressively for resources. The ideal partners fulfill specific roles that enhance the overall garden tableau while supporting our own health and aesthetics. We look for plants that can grow alongside our dense root system without being overwhelmed. They should have root structures that are either shallow or non-invasive, allowing our extensive root mass to access water and nutrients without a fierce underground battle. Above ground, the companion's foliage and form should create a pleasing contrast or harmony with our arching, strappy leaves.
To address our need for camouflaged lower stems, we greatly appreciate low-growing, spreading perennials that form a "living mulch." Creeping Sedums (Stonecrop) or low-growing Thyme are excellent choices. They form a dense mat that suppresses weeds, helps retain soil moisture for our roots, and provides textural contrast with their small, often succulent or tiny leaves against our larger foliage. For foliage drama, consider pairing us with Hostas. Their large, bold, often variegated leaves create a stunning contrast in texture and color with our finer, grass-like leaves. The Hosta's shade tolerance also means it will happily grow near our base, even if our upper foliage is in full sun.
Our flowering period can be extended and amplified by companions that bloom before or after us. For a spring display before our buds even form, interplant us with spring-blooming bulbs like Alliums. Their spherical flower heads on tall, slender stalks rise dramatically above our emerging foliage, creating architectural interest. As we begin our summer show, ornamental grasses like Fountain Grass (Pennisetum) make wonderful companions. Their airy, feathery plumes soften our bold flower forms and add movement to the garden. Most importantly, we attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. To support these vital creatures throughout the season, plant us with Coneflowers (Echinacea) and Russian Sage (Perovskia). These plants share our love for sun and well-drained soil, and their extended blooming periods create a pollinator buffet that ensures a lively, healthy garden ecosystem.
Successful cohabitation begins with proper planting. Prepare the soil thoroughly by amending it with compost to benefit all plants involved. When planting, position our daylily clump first, ensuring the crown (where the roots meet the stems) is about one inch below the soil surface. Then, arrange the companion plants around us, respecting their mature spread to avoid future overcrowding. For instance, plant the low-growing Sedums or Thyme about 12-18 inches from our center, allowing them room to creep towards our base. Taller companions like ornamental grasses or Coneflowers should be planted further away, at least 24 inches from our center, to ensure both they and we have sufficient space for air circulation and sunlight penetration. Water the entire planting area deeply after planting to settle the soil around all root systems.
