Ranunculus are prized for their exquisite, rose-like blooms and lush, fern-like foliage. To accentuate these features, companion plants with contrasting leaf forms are ideal. The fine, delicate texture of ranunculus leaves pairs beautifully with the broad, bold leaves of plants like Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla mollis). Its scalloped, cup-shaped leaves catch dew and rain, providing a beautiful textural counterpoint. Similarly, the strappy, arching leaves of ornamental grasses like Fountain Grass (Pennisetum) or the spiky, structural forms of Yucca offer a striking modern contrast. The key is to select plants whose foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, creating a layered and dynamic bed even when the ranunculus are not in peak bloom.
The color palette of ranunculus is vast, ranging from pure white and soft pastels to vibrant oranges and deep reds. Choosing companions that either harmonize or provide a deliberate contrast will enhance the visual impact. For soft pink or peach ranunculus, consider pairing with the silvery-gray foliage of Dusty Miller (Senecio cineraria) or Lamb's Ear (Stachys byzantina). This combination elevates the warmth of the blooms. For a bolder statement, deep crimson ranunculus can be stunning alongside the chartreuse flowers of Lady's Mantle or the golden foliage of a dwarf Japanese Maple. White-flowering companions, such as Sweet Alyssum or Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens), provide a neutral backdrop that makes any ranunculus color pop and adds a classic, cottage-garden feel.
From a purely physical perspective, ranunculus benefit from companions that can provide subtle support. While not typically floppy, their hollow stems can be vulnerable in wind or heavy rain. Low-growing, bushy plants can act as a living stake system. Dwarf Snapdragons, Ageratum, or Catmint (Nepeta) form dense mounds that help to prop up ranunculus stems, allowing the flowers to stand tall and display themselves properly. Furthermore, planning for succession ensures the bed remains attractive. Ranunculus are spring bloomers. As they fade and go dormant in summer, interplanting with later-season performers like Salvia, Russian Sage (Perovskia), or late-blooming Dahlias ensures the garden space continues to provide interest long after the ranunculus have retired for the season.
While ranunculus do not have many notorious pest problems, cultivating a diverse ecosystem is always beneficial. Companion planting with aromatic herbs can help deter common garden pests. Lavender and Rosemary, with their strong scents and preference for similar well-draining soil conditions, are excellent choices. They help mask the scent of the ranunculus from potential pests like aphids. Additionally, shallow-rooting companions are preferable as they will not compete aggressively with the ranunculus corms for water and nutrients directly below the soil surface. Low-growing annuals like Lobelia or Alyssum work well in this capacity, forming a living mulch that helps conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
