7 Powerful Anemone Companion Plants & 3 to Dodge

I experiment with various companion planting techniques to create a sustainable, eco-friendly garden oasis. Today, I’m excited to share my insights on anemone companion plants, focusing on 7 remarkable allies and 3 plants to steer clear of to ensure your anemones thrive.

Good Companion Plants for Anemones

Viburnum

Viburnum is another fantastic companion for anemones, offering both visual harmony and practical benefits. The robust nature of viburnum provides a protective shelter for anemones against strong winds, while its dense foliage can offer shade during the hottest parts of the day.

To successfully pair viburnum with anemones:

1. Select a location that receives partial to full sunlight.
2. Ensure the soil is fertile, well-drained, and slightly acidic to neutral.
3. Plant viburnum shrubs at least 5 feet apart from anemones to give each plant ample space to grow.
4. Water regularly to establish a deep, extensive root system, especially during the first growing season.

Learn more about viburnum companion plants by visiting our detailed guide.

Japanese Forest Grass

The soft, cascading foliage of Japanese Forest Grass makes it an aesthetically pleasing companion for anemones. This grass brings texture and movement to the garden, contrasting beautifully with the bold colors of anemone flowers. Additionally, Japanese Forest Grass can thrive in the dappled shade where anemones often flourish, creating a cohesive and serene garden display.

For planting Japanese Forest Grass with anemones:

1. Choose a shaded or partially shaded area with moist, well-draining soil.
2. Space the grass clumps about 18 inches apart to allow for spreading.
3. Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture levels, especially in dry conditions.

For further details on Japanese Forest Grass companion plants, check out this article.

Astilbe

Astilbe, with its feathery plumes and fern-like foliage, is a stunning companion for anemones. This plant thrives in shady spots where anemones are also comfortable, making them perfect partners in garden beds that receive limited sunlight. Astilbe adds a textural contrast and a splash of color that complements the delicate beauty of anemones.

To grow Astilbe with anemones:

1. Opt for a location that is shaded for most of the day, with rich, moist soil.
2. Plant astilbe plants about 18 to 24 inches apart to accommodate their growth.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot, dry periods, to support the health of both plants.

Explore more about Astilbe companion plants by visiting our comprehensive guide.

Nasturtium

One excellent companion for anemones is nasturtium. This plant is not only a colorful addition to your garden but also acts as a natural pest deterrent, protecting anemones from harmful insects. Nasturtiums offer a dual benefit of aesthetic appeal and functional pest control, making them a top choice for companion planting.

To plant nasturtiums with anemones:

1. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil.
2. Plant nasturtium seeds directly into the soil about half an inch deep, spaced 10 to 12 inches apart.
3. Water gently and keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7 to 10 days.
4. Once established, nasturtiums require minimal care, making them a low-maintenance companion for your anemones.

Discover more about nasturtium companion plants by reading this post.

Marjoram

Marjoram is not only a fragrant herb but also a valuable companion for anemones. Its aromatic leaves can deter pests, while its compact growth habit does not compete with anemones for space or nutrients. Marjoram can also attract beneficial insects, such as pollinators, to the garden, enhancing the overall health and beauty of your anemone display.

To integrate marjoram into your anemone garden:

1. Select a sunny location with well-drained soil.
2. Plant marjoram starts or seeds about 8 inches apart, ensuring they are not overshadowing your anemones.
3. Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, to promote strong root development.

Read more on marjoram companion plants and their benefits in this detailed article.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is another herb that makes an excellent companion for anemones. Its lemon-scented leaves can help repel mosquitoes and other pests, while its tendency to spread can provide ground cover, keeping the soil moist and cool for anemones.

To pair lemon balm with anemones:

1. Plant lemon balm in a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.
2. Space lemon balm plants 18 to 24 inches apart from anemones to prevent overcrowding.
3. Water consistently, especially in the first few weeks after planting, to establish a robust root system.

For more insights on lemon balm companion plants, dive into our expert guide.

Geranium

Geraniums are not just vibrant flowers; they also serve as great companions for anemones by attracting beneficial insects and deterring pests. Their varied colors and growth habits can complement the elegant blooms of anemones, offering a visually appealing contrast.

To grow geraniums with anemones:

1. Choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight, with fertile, well-drained soil.
2. Plant geraniums approximately 12 inches away from anemones to ensure both plants have enough space to flourish.
3. Water the plants moderately but consistently, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.

Discover the advantages of geranium companion plants in this comprehensive article.

Plants to Avoid Near Anemones

While many plants can enhance the growth and beauty of anemones, there are a few that should be kept at a distance due to their conflicting needs or competitive nature.

Walnut Trees

Walnut trees, particularly black walnuts, produce a substance called juglone, which is toxic to many plant species, including anemones. Planting anemones near walnut trees can lead to stunted growth or even death.

Mint

While mint is beneficial in some garden settings, its aggressive growth can be problematic near anemones. Mint can quickly overtake a garden space, competing with anemones for water and nutrients, which can hinder their growth.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus trees are known for their rapid growth and extensive root systems, which can extract significant moisture from the soil. Planting anemones near eucalyptus trees may lead to water competition, negatively affecting the health of your anemones.

Companion Planting Chart for Anemones

Here’s a quick reference chart listing the best companion plants for anemones and the key reasons why they are beneficial:

Good Companion Plants	Why They Are Good Companions
Nasturtium	Pest deterrent, adds color
Viburnum	Provides shelter, partial shade
Japanese Forest Grass	Adds texture, thrives in shade
Astilbe	Offers color and texture in shade
Marjoram	Aromatic pest deterrent, attracts pollinators
Lemon Balm	Repels pests, provides ground cover
Geranium	Attracts beneficial insects, adds vibrant colors

Remember, the secret to a successful companion planting strategy lies in understanding the specific needs and characteristics of each plant. By carefully selecting companions that complement each other, you can create a harmonious and thriving garden ecosystem.