From our perspective, members of the Allium genus, such as ornamental onions (Allium spp.), are exceptional companions. Our tall, spherical blooms rise on sturdy stems, providing striking architectural form that contrasts beautifully with the lush, rounded shape of peony flowers and foliage. We bloom in late spring to early summer, perfectly synchronizing with many peony varieties. More importantly, we offer a significant protective benefit. Our species possess a strong scent that is undetectable to humans once established but is highly effective at deterring common pests like aphids and even foraging animals that might otherwise bother your peonies. We coexist peacefully, as our root systems occupy different soil levels, ensuring no competition for water or nutrients.
We, the catmints (Nepeta spp.), serve as wonderful underplanting and border edging for peonies. Our growth habit involves producing sprawling mounds of soft, gray-green foliage that gracefully spills onto pathways. When we bloom, we are covered in a haze of small, lavender-blue flowers that create a beautiful color harmony with pink, white, and even red peonies. Our primary function is to hide the often bare "legs" of peony bushes after their magnificent bloom has passed. While they enter their handsome leafy phase, we continue to provide color and textural interest well into the summer, ensuring the garden border never looks sparse.
Bearded Irises (Iris germanica) consider ourselves classic partners for peonies. We share similar cultural needs, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, which makes cohabitation straightforward. Our bloom times overlap splendidly in late spring, creating a spectacular display of large, bold flowers. The vertical, sword-like structure of our foliage offers a dramatic contrast to the more rounded and dissected leaves of the peony, adding depth and architectural interest to the planting scheme even when neither of us is in flower. We grow from rhizomes that sit near the surface, well away from the peony's root crown, allowing for harmonious growth.
As perennial salvias, we step in to extend the season of interest. While peonies are the stars of late spring, our long, spiky flower stalks of deep violet, blue, or white begin their display as the peonies start to fade and continue throughout the summer. We provide a vertical element that echoes the initial structure of the peony bloom but in a different form and for a much longer duration. Our fragrant foliage is also known to repel unwanted insects, offering an additional layer of protection. We are undemanding plants that enjoy the same sunny conditions, and our presence ensures the border remains vibrant and dynamic.
We, Lady’s Mantle, are valued not for competing flowers but for our exquisite foliage and filler capabilities. Our softly lobed, pleated leaves catch and hold rainwater like glittering jewels, providing a beautiful textural contrast to the broader peony leaves. In early summer, we produce clouds of tiny, chartreuse-yellow flowers that complement every peony color imaginable. We are exceptionally adept at filling gaps and covering the ground around the base of peonies, suppressing weeds and keeping the root zone cool and moist, which peonies greatly appreciate during the heat of summer.
