Hostas are the backbone of many woodland gardens and for good reason. Their stunning foliage, shade tolerance, and wide range of sizes and colours make them one of the most reliable plants for dappled shade. But while hostas are beautiful on their own, they truly shine when paired with the right companions.
If you want your woodland garden to feel natural, layered, and effortlessly cohesive, choosing plants that complement hostas is key. Below are some of the best natural pairings that work both aesthetically and practically.
Woodland gardens mimic the conditions of a forest floor: partial to full shade, moisture retentive soil, and protection from harsh winds. Hostas evolved for exactly this environment. Their broad leaves capture limited light, while their roots appreciate cool, humus-rich soil.
To create a planting scheme that feels organic rather than staged, think in terms of contrast: leaf shape, texture, height, and seasonal interest.
Ferns and hostas are a timeless pairing in shaded gardens. The fine, feathery fronds of ferns contrast beautifully with the bold, architectural leaves of hostas.
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Ferns also emerge early in the season, helping fill gaps before hostas fully unfurl, which keeps borders looking full from spring onwards.
For woodland gardeners who want colour beyond green, heucheras (coral bells) are an excellent choice. Their foliage ranges from deep purple and copper to lime and silver, adding depth and interest alongside hostas.
Heucheras sit lower to the ground, making them ideal for edging paths or filing spaces at the front of borders. They also provide year-round interest in milder climates, something hostas can't offer once they die back.
Brunnera is one of the best plants for brightening shady areas. Its heart-shaped, often silver-washed leaves echo the form of hostas while still providing contrast.
In spring, brunnera produces delicate blue flowers that resemble forget-me-nots, adding a soft seasonal highlight just as hostas are starting to emerge.
Astilbes bring movement and colour into a woodland planting schemes. Their airy flower plumes rise above hosta foliage in early to mid-summer, creating vertical interest.
They thrive in the same moist, shaded conditions and are particularly effective when planted in drifts rather than isolated clumps. Choose pinks, whites, or deep reds depending on the mood you want to create.
Often overlooked, epimedium is one of the best ground-cover plants for woodland gardens. Its delicate spring flowers and elegant, wiry foliage pair perfectly with hostas without competing for attention.
Epimedium is also tolerant of dry shade once established, making it useful under trees where hostas might struggle without extra care.
To maximise interest throughout the year, weave spring bulbs among your hostas. Since hostas emerge relatively late, bulbs like snowdrops, bluebells, and woodland crocus can flower and fade before hostas leaves take over.
This layered approach keeps your woodland garden looking alive from late winter through autumn.
Hostas are incredibly versatile, but they're at their best when thoughtfully paired with other woodland plants. By combining contrasting foliagbrunnerae, staggered seasonal interest, and plants that share similar growing conditions, you can create a woodland garden that feels rich, balanced, and timeless.
Whether you're designing a new shaded border or refreshing an established garden, these natural hosta pairings will help you get the most out of year space and your plants.
