The Hydrangea Companion Plant That Makes Their Blooms Pop

Hydrangeas are big, bold shrubs that add tons of personality to any garden. When they're paired with certain other plants — in particular, grasses — they command even more attention. If creating drama is your goal, one of the best plants to pair with hydrangeas is Hakone grass (Hakonechloa macra), also known as Japanese forest grass.

If you're unfamiliar with this ornamental plant, here's a quick overview. Hakone grass is native to Japan and has slender green and gold leaves that grow almost a foot long. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5 to 9. Why is Hakone grass one of the best plants to grow next to hydrangeas for a thriving garden? It's mainly due to the two plants' similar growing requirements. Both species prefer part shade and moist, well-drained soil. Hakone grass produces sprays of small flowers in mid-to-late summer, but they hide among the leaves, so they won't steal the spotlight from your hydrangeas.

Although Hakone grass leaves are most often green or yellow, there are varieties with other foliage colors. For example, the leaves of the cultivar Hakonechloa macra 'Naomi' develop reddish-purple streaks as the climate cools. Meanwhile, Hakonechloa macra 'Nicolas' turns red and orange in fall. Pick whichever cultivar best complements the color of your hydrangea blooms.

How do you successfully cultivate Hakone grass in a flower bed? The best time to plant this low-maintenance ground cover that grows beautifully beneath hydrangeas is in spring, after the last frost of the season. Alternatively, if you live in a warmer climate, you could plant it in early fall. As mentioned, choose a spot with partial or deep shade for this ornamental grass species. Dig a hole that's about twice as wide and as tall as the root ball. Carefully spread out the plant's roots and place the plant in the center of the hole. Fill the hole with the soil you dug out and gently press the soil down. Water your newly planted Hakone grass well.

It's quite easy to grow and take care of hydrangeas, and that's another trait these flowering shrubs and Hakone grass have in common. Still, there are a few important tips worth following to help your ornamental grass patch thrive. Water Hakone grass often to keep the soil consistently moist. If it's particularly hot or dry in your area, you might have to water the grass daily. Don't let it get waterlogged, though, or you could end up with crown or root rot. Add a thick layer of mulch around the base of your Hakone grass to retain moisture and protect the roots through winter. Finally, while this plant doesn't need regular pruning, you can cut back dead foliage in late winter or early spring. This will help support new growth and keep your grass looking fresh.