Companions for Japanese Anemone: A Guide to Creating Stunning Garden Displays

If you're looking for a way to add some color and texture to your garden, consider adding the delicate beauty of Japanese anemones. These graceful plants produce charming flowers in shades of pink, white, and mauve, which bloom from midsummer to fall. While they are stunning on their own, pairing them with compatible companion plants can create even more dynamic displays.

Companion Plants for Japanese Anemone

When choosing companion plants, it's important to consider factors such as soil type, light requirements, and growing conditions. Here are some options that complement Japanese anemones:

1. Ferns

Ferns are a perfect match for Japanese anemones, as their lush foliage provides a beautiful contrast to the delicate blooms. Try planting maidenhair ferns (Adiantum spp.) or ostrich ferns (Matteuccia struthiopteris) nearby for a dramatic effect.

How to Plant Ferns

Ferns prefer moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and add organic matter to the soil. Place the fern in the hole and backfill with soil, then water thoroughly.

2. Hostas

Hostas are another excellent choice for Japanese anemones, as they thrive in similar growing conditions. Their large leaves come in a range of colors and textures, providing a striking backdrop for the anemone's flowers.

How to Plant Hostas

Hostas prefer moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and add compost to the soil. Place the hosta in the hole and backfill with soil, then water thoroughly.

3. Heucheras

Heucheras, also known as coral bells, are a great way to add some color to your Japanese anemone display. Their vibrant foliage comes in shades of purple, green, and silver, making them a perfect complement to the anemone's blooms.

How to Plant Heucheras

Heucheras prefer well-drained soil in partial shade. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and add compost to the soil. Place the heuchera in the hole and backfill with soil, then water thoroughly.

Additional Companion Plants

Here are some other companion plants that pair well with Japanese anemones:

4. Astilbes

Astilbes produce feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, white, and red, which look stunning when paired with the delicate blooms of Japanese anemones.

How to Plant Astilbes

Astilbes prefer moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and add compost to the soil. Place the astilbe in the hole and backfill with soil, then water thoroughly.

5. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are a classic garden plant that pairs well with Japanese anemones. Their large, showy blooms come in shades of pink, blue, and white, adding a pop of color to your garden display.

How to Plant Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained soil in partial shade. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and add compost to the soil. Place the hydrangea in the hole and backfill with soil, then water thoroughly.

6. Sedums

Sedums are a hardy plant that pairs well with Japanese anemones. Their fleshy leaves come in shades of green and burgundy, providing a lovely contrast to the anemone's delicate flowers.

How to Plant Sedums

Sedums prefer well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and add gravel or sand to the soil for improved drainage. Place the sedum in the hole and backfill with soil, then water thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best soil type for Japanese anemones?

Japanese anemones prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.

2. How much sunlight do Japanese anemones need?

Japanese anemones thrive in partial shade to full sun, but they prefer cooler temperatures and can suffer in hot, dry conditions.

3. When should I plant Japanese anemones?

Japanese anemones can be planted in spring or fall, but they tend to establish better when planted in the fall.

4. Do Japanese anemones require pruning?

Japanese anemones don't require regular pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged foliage in the spring.

5. Can Japanese anemones be grown in pots?

Yes, Japanese anemones can be grown in pots as long as they have adequate drainage and receive enough sunlight.


Pairing Japanese anemones with compatible companion plants can bring new life to your garden display, adding color, texture, and depth. Consider the options listed above or experiment with your own combinations for stunning results.