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What to plant next to peonies?
- Blog
- 24 March 2025
Peonies are one of the most loved flowers in the garden. Their large, soft blooms and sweet fragrance make them a true highlight in spring. But after flowering, peonies can look a bit plain. That is why it is smart to plant other flowers next to them. With the right companion plants, your garden can stay full of life and color for a much longer time. In this blog, you will discover what to plant next to peonies to create a beautiful and balanced garden.
Tips for choosing the right plants to grow with peonies
Before choosing which plants to grow next to your peonies, it’s important to think about what they need. Peonies love full sun and well-drained soil, so their companion plants should enjoy the same conditions. If you mix sun-loving and shade-loving plants, one of them might not grow well. Always check the light and soil needs before planting them together.
It also helps to plan for the whole season. Peonies bloom in late spring or early summer, but their green leaves stay long after the flowers are gone. To keep your garden looking full and colorful, choose plants that bloom before or after the peonies. This way, there will always be something interesting to see. Plants with large or pretty leaves can also help cover the peony stems once the blooms are finished. Together, these choices help create a balanced and beautiful garden that lasts longer than just the peony season.
Best plants to grow next to peonies
Not sure what to plant next to your peonies? This table gives you an easy overview of the best options.
| Plant Name | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Catmint (Nepeta) | Soft purple flowers and long blooming season. Fills in space around peonies. |
| Salvia | Tall flower spikes in bold colors. Blooms after peonies and attracts pollinators. |
| Lady’s Mantle | Low-growing with pretty leaves. Hides fading peony stems. |
| Iris | Blooms at the same time as peonies. Adds height and comes in many colors. |
| Allium | Fun, round flower heads. Adds shape and blooms just before or with peonies. |
| Hosta | Big, bold leaves. Good for part shade and adds texture after peony bloom. |
| Lupine | Bright flower spikes. Blooms with peonies and adds drama to the garden. |
| Columbine | Soft and wild-looking. Blooms early and fits well in natural garden styles. |
Make the most of your peony garden
By choosing the right plants to grow next to your peonies, you can enjoy a garden that stays colorful from early spring to summer. Pick plants that need the same amount of sun and water. Also, think about when each plant blooms, so your garden has flowers for a longer time.
Peonies will still be the main focus, but with the right companions, your garden will look full and beautiful even after the peonies are done blooming.
Groot & Groot: order peonies in bulk
Would you like to know more about what to plant next to peonies? Or are you curious about the prices of our peonies or peony roots? Feel free to contact us. Groot & Groot supplies peony flowers and peony cuttings in wholesale quantities. At Groot & Groot, we are able to grow peonies all year round. So we are not seasonal. You can also email us directly at info@grootgroot.nl or call us at +(31) (6) 110 60 243. We would be happy to help you!
