When it comes to landscaping and garden design, magnolias are a popular choice due to their beautiful, large blooms and attractive foliage. If you’re looking to enhance the beauty of your magnolia tree and create a stunning garden setting, there are several plants that pair perfectly with these majestic trees. Let’s explore some complementary plants that can elevate the visual appeal of your magnolia tree.
Azaleas
Azaleas are a fantastic choice to plant alongside magnolias, especially because they bloom in spring, harmonizing with the magnolia’s flowering season. The vibrant colors and delicate petals of azaleas create a stunning visual contrast against the bold magnolia blooms, adding depth and dimension to your garden landscape.
Hydrangeas
Another excellent companion for magnolias is the hydrangea. With its large, showy blooms that come in an array of shades like pink, blue, and white, hydrangeas can provide a striking backdrop to the base of a magnolia tree. The combination of magnolias and hydrangeas creates a dynamic display of color and texture that is sure to capture attention.
Hostas
For those searching for a versatile and low-maintenance plant to pair with magnolias, hostas are an ideal choice. These shade-loving perennials not only thrive in the same growing conditions as magnolias but also offer a rich, green foliage that beautifully complements the magnolia’s glossy leaves. Planted around the base of a magnolia tree, hostas add a touch of lushness and elegance to the overall landscape.
Japanese Maples
The striking foliage of Japanese maples can serve as a stunning contrast to the magnificent blooms of magnolias. Japanese maples come in various shades of red, orange, and burgundy, creating a vivid visual impact when planted near magnolias. The combination of the delicate magnolia flowers and the vibrant leaves of Japanese maples adds depth and interest to your garden design.
Camellias
Camellias are another flowering shrub that pairs beautifully with magnolias. Known for their elegant blooms that come in shades of pink, red, and white, camellias bloom in late winter to early spring, complementing the flowering time of magnolias. Planting camellias near magnolias can create a continuous blooming cycle in your garden, ensuring a feast for the eyes throughout the seasons.
Heuchera
Heuchera, also known as coral bells, is a versatile perennial that can add a pop of color and texture to the base of a magnolia tree. With its striking foliage that comes in various hues like purple, green, and silver, heuchera can provide a visual contrast to the bold magnolia blooms. Planted strategically around the magnolia tree, heuchera can create a visually appealing landscape that is both vibrant and dynamic.
Daylilies
Daylilies are a popular choice for gardeners looking to enhance the beauty of their magnolia tree. With their vibrant blooms that come in shades of yellow, orange, and red, daylilies can create a striking visual display when paired with magnolias. Planting daylilies around the base of a magnolia tree can provide a burst of color and texture that complements the elegance of the magnolia blooms.
Boxwoods
For a classic and timeless look, consider planting boxwoods alongside magnolias. Boxwoods are evergreen shrubs with dense foliage that can provide a lush and green backdrop to the majestic magnolia tree. The glossy, dark-green leaves of boxwoods create a beautiful contrast to the bold blooms of magnolias, resulting in a visually balanced and cohesive garden design.
Lavender
Lavender is a fragrant and visually appealing herb that can complement the beauty of magnolias. With its aromatic blooms and silvery-green foliage, lavender adds a touch of charm and elegance to the garden setting. Planted near magnolias, lavender can create a sensory experience with its soothing scent and beautiful purple flowers, enhancing the overall ambiance of your outdoor space.
Ferns
Ferns are a great option for adding texture and greenery to the base of a magnolia tree. With their delicate fronds and graceful foliage, ferns can soften the landscape and create a lush, woodland feel around the magnolia tree. Planting ferns around the base of a magnolia can create a tranquil and verdant oasis, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Peonies
Peonies are beloved for their lush blooms and captivating fragrance, making them a perfect companion for magnolias. With their large, ruffled petals and a range of colors like pink, white, and red, peonies can create a stunning contrast to the bold magnolia flowers. Planting peonies near magnolias can result in a breathtaking display of color and beauty that will surely captivate onlookers.
