
Hydrangeas are one of the most versatile and visually stunning flowers you can use in floral arrangements. Their large, lush blooms and wide range of colors make them a favorite among florists and garden enthusiasts alike. But what flowers go well with hydrangeas in an arrangement? The answer depends on the look you’re trying to achieve, the season, and the occasion. Let’s dive into the world of floral pairings and explore the best companions for hydrangeas.
1. Roses: A Classic Pairing
Roses and hydrangeas are a match made in floral heaven. The soft, rounded shape of hydrangea blooms complements the structured elegance of roses. Whether you’re going for a romantic, vintage, or modern look, this combination works beautifully. For a cohesive arrangement, choose roses in colors that harmonize with your hydrangeas. For example, pair white hydrangeas with blush pink roses for a soft, romantic vibe, or deep blue hydrangeas with crimson roses for a bold, dramatic effect.
2. Peonies: A Match of Texture and Volume
Peonies and hydrangeas share a similar lushness, making them a perfect pair. The delicate, ruffled petals of peonies contrast beautifully with the dense, clustered blooms of hydrangeas. This combination is ideal for spring and summer arrangements, especially for weddings or garden parties. Opt for pastel-colored peonies to create a dreamy, ethereal look, or go bold with vibrant hues for a striking display.
3. Lilies: Adding Height and Drama
If you want to add height and drama to your arrangement, consider pairing hydrangeas with lilies. The tall, elegant stems of lilies create a vertical element that balances the round, voluminous shape of hydrangeas. Oriental lilies, with their large, fragrant blooms, are particularly well-suited for this pairing. Use white lilies with blue or purple hydrangeas for a sophisticated, monochromatic look, or mix in stargazer lilies for a pop of color.
4. Baby’s Breath: A Delicate Contrast
For a more delicate and airy arrangement, pair hydrangeas with baby’s breath. The tiny, cloud-like clusters of baby’s breath provide a lovely contrast to the bold, dense blooms of hydrangeas. This combination is perfect for creating a soft, romantic look, especially in wedding bouquets or centerpieces. Baby’s breath also helps to fill in any gaps in the arrangement, giving it a fuller, more cohesive appearance.
5. Eucalyptus: Adding Texture and Fragrance
Eucalyptus is a fantastic addition to any hydrangea arrangement. Its silvery-green leaves add texture and a touch of rustic charm, while its subtle fragrance enhances the overall sensory experience. Eucalyptus works particularly well in fall and winter arrangements, where its muted tones complement the rich, deep colors of hydrangeas. Use it as a filler or as a trailing element to add movement and depth to your arrangement.
6. Dahlias: A Bold and Vibrant Choice
For a bold, vibrant arrangement, pair hydrangeas with dahlias. The intricate, geometric shapes of dahlia blooms create a striking contrast with the soft, rounded forms of hydrangeas. This combination is perfect for late summer and fall arrangements, where the rich, warm colors of dahlias can really shine. Consider pairing deep red or orange dahlias with white or green hydrangeas for a dramatic, eye-catching display.
7. Ranunculus: A Touch of Whimsy
Ranunculus is another excellent choice for pairing with hydrangeas. Their delicate, layered petals add a touch of whimsy and elegance to any arrangement. Ranunculus comes in a wide range of colors, making it easy to find a shade that complements your hydrangeas. This combination is particularly well-suited for spring arrangements, where the soft, pastel tones of ranunculus can create a fresh, cheerful look.
8. Orchids: A Modern and Exotic Twist
For a more modern and exotic arrangement, consider pairing hydrangeas with orchids. The sleek, elegant lines of orchids provide a striking contrast to the lush, rounded blooms of hydrangeas. This combination works particularly well in contemporary or minimalist arrangements, where the focus is on clean lines and bold shapes. Use white or purple orchids with blue or white hydrangeas for a sophisticated, high-end look.
9. Carnations: A Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, carnations are a great choice for pairing with hydrangeas. Despite their reputation as a “cheap” flower, carnations can be incredibly beautiful when used correctly. Their ruffled petals and wide range of colors make them a versatile addition to any arrangement. Pair white or pink carnations with blue or purple hydrangeas for a soft, romantic look, or go bold with red or orange carnations for a more vibrant display.
10. Succulents: A Unique and Modern Pairing
For a truly unique and modern arrangement, consider pairing hydrangeas with succulents. The fleshy, geometric shapes of succulents create a striking contrast with the soft, rounded blooms of hydrangeas. This combination is perfect for contemporary or rustic arrangements, where the focus is on texture and form. Use succulents as a focal point or as a filler to add interest and depth to your arrangement.
11. Tulips: A Springtime Favorite
Tulips and hydrangeas are a match made in springtime heaven. The simple, elegant shape of tulips complements the lush, rounded blooms of hydrangeas, creating a fresh, cheerful arrangement. This combination is perfect for spring weddings, Easter celebrations, or any occasion where you want to bring a touch of springtime joy. Pair pastel-colored tulips with white or pink hydrangeas for a soft, romantic look, or go bold with vibrant tulips for a more dramatic effect.
12. Lavender: Adding Fragrance and Color
Lavender is a wonderful addition to any hydrangea arrangement. Its delicate purple blooms and soothing fragrance add a touch of elegance and charm. Lavender works particularly well in rustic or country-style arrangements, where its natural, earthy tones can really shine. Use it as a filler or as a trailing element to add movement and depth to your arrangement.
13. Sunflowers: A Cheerful and Bold Combination
For a cheerful, bold arrangement, pair hydrangeas with sunflowers. The bright, sunny faces of sunflowers create a striking contrast with the soft, rounded blooms of hydrangeas. This combination is perfect for summer arrangements, where the vibrant colors of sunflowers can really shine. Pair yellow sunflowers with white or blue hydrangeas for a fresh, cheerful look, or go bold with orange sunflowers for a more dramatic effect.
14. Anemones: A Touch of Elegance
Anemones are a fantastic choice for pairing with hydrangeas. Their delicate, poppy-like blooms add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any arrangement. Anemones come in a wide range of colors, making it easy to find a shade that complements your hydrangeas. This combination is particularly well-suited for winter or early spring arrangements, where the rich, deep colors of anemones can create a striking contrast with the soft, pastel tones of hydrangeas.
15. Delphiniums: Adding Height and Color
Delphiniums are another excellent choice for pairing with hydrangeas. Their tall, spiky blooms add height and a pop of color to any arrangement. Delphiniums come in a wide range of colors, from soft pastels to vibrant blues and purples, making them a versatile addition to any arrangement. Use them as a focal point or as a filler to add interest and depth to your arrangement.
FAQs
Q: Can I mix different colored hydrangeas in the same arrangement? A: Absolutely! Mixing different colored hydrangeas can create a stunning, multi-dimensional look. Just make sure the colors complement each other and the other flowers in the arrangement.
Q: How do I keep hydrangeas fresh in an arrangement? A: To keep hydrangeas fresh, make sure to cut the stems at an angle and place them in water immediately. You can also mist the blooms with water to keep them hydrated.
Q: What season is best for hydrangea arrangements? A: Hydrangeas are most commonly available in the spring and summer, but they can be used in arrangements year-round. In the fall and winter, you can use dried hydrangeas for a more rustic look.
Q: Can I use hydrangeas in a bridal bouquet? A: Yes, hydrangeas are a popular choice for bridal bouquets due to their lush, romantic appearance. Just be sure to handle them gently, as their stems can be delicate.
Q: What other foliage pairs well with hydrangeas? A: In addition to eucalyptus, other foliage like ferns, ivy, and salal can pair well with hydrangeas, adding texture and depth to the arrangement.
By carefully selecting the right flowers and foliage to pair with hydrangeas, you can create stunning arrangements that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re going for a romantic, rustic, or modern look, the possibilities are endless!