When planting Begonias, you can pair them with complementary plants that share similar growing conditions. Some good companions include ferns, impatiens, and coleus, which thrive in partial shade and moist soil. You can also try pairing Begonias with creeping thyme or sweet woodruff for a more rustic look. Consider the mature size of your Begonia variety when selecting companion plants to ensure a harmonious blend.
As a passionate gardener, I’ve always been fascinated by the art of combining plants.
There’s something magical about bringing together seemingly disparate species and watching them thrive in harmony.
One of my favorite plant families is Begonia – their vibrant blooms, delicate foliage, and adaptability to various environments make them a joy to work with.
But what really gets me excited is finding the perfect companions to accentuate their beauty.
In this blog post, I’m sharing my top 8 surprisingly good combinations for planting alongside begonias.
From fragrant herbs to colorful flowers and lush foliage plants, I’ll reveal the secrets to creating stunning displays that will brighten up any room.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, get ready to be inspired by these unbeatable pairings!
Table of Contents
Companions 1: Herbs
When it comes to pairing companions with your beautiful begonias, you might be surprised at how well certain herbs can complement these stunning plants.
In this section, we’ll explore two of my favorite herb combinations that will make your begonia arrangements truly unforgettable.
Basil – A Pop of Color and Fragrance
Basil is one of the most popular herbs to grow in your garden, and for good reason.
Not only does it add a pop of color with its bright green leaves, but it also releases a sweet fragrance that’s simply intoxicating.
When paired with begonias, basil creates a beautiful contrast of textures and colors that’s hard to resist.
Example: Pairing Sweet Basil with Begonia x hybrida ‘Corallina’
Imagine pairing the vibrant coral-colored Begonia x hybrida ‘Corallina’ with the bright green leaves of sweet basil.
The result is a stunning display that not only adds a burst of color but also releases a fragrant aroma that’s sure to draw in any visitor.
It’s the perfect combination for adding some visual interest and fragrance to your begonia arrangements.
Mint – A Cooling Effect and Pest Deterrent
Mint is another herb that pairs surprisingly well with begonias, providing a cooling effect and helping to deter pests from attacking these beautiful plants.
Whether you’re growing peppermint or spearmint, mint is a natural pest repellent that can help keep those pesky aphids and whiteflies at bay.
Case Study: Growing Peppermint Alongside Begonia semperflorens
In one of my own experiments, I grew peppermint alongside Begonia semperflorens and noticed a significant reduction in aphid infestations.
The refreshing scent of the mint also helped to keep the begonias healthy and thriving.
It’s a simple trick that can make a big difference in the long run.
Companions 2: Flowers
As a begonia enthusiast, you’re probably aware that these gorgeous flowers can be a bit finicky when it comes to companions.
But fear not!
I’ve got some surprisingly good combinations that will make your begonias shine like never before.
Petunia – A Beautiful Contrast in Texture and Color
When it comes to pairing begonias with flowers, petunias are an unexpected but fabulous choice.
The soft, velvety texture of petunias creates a beautiful contrast with the bright, waxy leaves of begonias.
Plus, their trumpet-shaped blooms come in a range of colors that complement begonias’ bright hues perfectly.
Tutorial: Planting Petunias Alongside Begonia hybrida ‘Corallina’
If you’re looking for a striking combination, try pairing petunias with Begonia hybrida ‘Corallina’.
This beautiful begonia variety features coral-pink blooms that will pop against the soft pink and white petals of your petunias.
Simply plant them together in a container or garden bed, and enjoy the show!
Marigold – A Burst of Yellow and Orange
Marigolds are another great choice to pair with begonias.
These bright, cheerful flowers add a burst of yellow and orange to complement begonias’ bright colors.
Plus, their tall, statuesque stems provide a nice contrast to the sprawling habit of begonias.
Example: Pairing Marigolds with Begonia semperflorens
For a vibrant and cheerful display, try pairing marigolds with Begonia semperflorens.
This variety features bright green leaves and white blooms that will shine like diamonds against the bright yellow and orange petals of your marigolds.
Simply plant them together in a container or garden bed, and enjoy the sunshine!
There you have it – two surprisingly good combinations to try with begonias!
Whether you’re looking for a striking contrast or a burst of color, these pairings are sure to delight.
Happy planting!
Companions 3: Foliage Plants – The Perfect Blend for Your Begonia Arrangements
When it comes to pairing begonias with other foliage plants, you might be surprised at just how well they complement each other.
In this section, we’ll explore two of my favorite combinations that will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your begonia arrangements.
Ferns – The Delicate Touch
Ferns are the ultimate foliage stars when it comes to adding a delicate, lacy texture to your begonia arrangements.
And let me tell you, they’re incredibly easy to grow!
Case in point: growing autumn fern alongside Begonia hybrida ‘Corallina’ for a lush, green backdrop.
Imagine strolling through a serene forest on a crisp autumn morning, the sunlight filtering through the leaves and casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.
That’s exactly what you’ll get when you combine the soft, lacy fronds of an autumn fern with the vibrant blooms of Begonia hybrida ‘Corallina’.
The result is a harmonious blend of textures and colors that will leave your guests in awe.
Hostas – The Shade Savvy Companion
Hostas are another foliage superstar that pairs perfectly with begonias.
Not only do they provide shade, which can be especially beneficial for begonias that prefer partial shading, but they also help retain moisture in the soil around them.
It’s a match made in heaven!
Take Begonia semperflorens, for example.
This stunning variety boasts bright red flowers and glossy leaves that love to bask in the shade.
Pair it with hostas, and you’ll create a shaded, tropical atmosphere that will transport your guests to a lush jungle oasis.
In this section, we’ve explored two surprisingly good combinations that will elevate your begonia arrangements from basic to brilliant.
By incorporating ferns and hostas into your designs, you’ll add depth, texture, and visual interest that will leave your audience in awe.
So go ahead, get creative, and watch your begonias bloom like never before!
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on the surprisingly good combinations we’ve explored today, I’m reminded of how much joy and creativity can be brought into our lives through simple plant pairings.
For me, there’s something special about watching begonias thrive alongside their companions – it’s like witnessing a little piece of magic unfold.
Whether you’re pairing herbs like basil with fragrant begonias or adding some sunny marigolds to bring out the bright colors of your semperflorens, the possibilities are endless!
By incorporating these unique combinations into your garden or indoor space, you’ll not only be creating visually stunning displays but also inviting a sense of wonder and curiosity into your life.
So go ahead, get creative, and see where these surprisingly good combinations take you!