Celebrating National Friendship Day in the Garden

At Hinsdale Nurseries, we believe some things are just better together—like lifelong friendships and well-paired plants. In honor of National Friendship Day, we’re highlighting some of our favorite garden duos that not only grow well side by side but also bring out the best in each other.

Whether you’re planting a new bed or updating your container garden, here are some dynamic pairings that complement in color, texture, height, and overall harmony, proving that plants, like people, thrive with the right support.

Coneflower & Black-Eyed Susan

Why they work:
These Midwest natives are a dream team for pollinators—and your summer garden. Their bold colors, upright growth, and long bloom time make them perfect for wildflower-inspired borders or naturalized beds.

Best in: Full sun, well-drained soil
Bonus: Drought-tolerant and low maintenance once established

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Hosta & Japanese Painted Fern

Why they work:
Shade doesn’t have to be dull. The broad, lush leaves of hostas contrast beautifully with the delicate fronds of Japanese 

Painted Ferns. It’s texture heaven in a part-shade retreat.

Best in: Morning sun or full shade, moist soil
Bonus: The fern’s silvery tones play up the variegation in hostas beautifully

Sage & Yarrow

Why they work:
This pairing brings color, movement, and pollinator magic to sunny spots. Both are hardy perennials with long blooming periods, and their vertical and mounded forms balance each other out.

Best in: Full sun, well-drained soil
Bonus: Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant

Phlox & Geranium

Why they work:
Phlox brings tall summer color, while hardy geraniums make a blooming groundcover at their feet. Together, they fill space vertically and horizontally, creating a lush, layered look.

Best in: Full sun to part shade, fertile, moist soil
Bonus: Excellent choice for cottage gardens or border beds

Daylilies & Ornamental Grasses

Why they work:
This bold combo adds drama and motion. The structured blooms of daylilies rise above graceful swaying grasses for a design that feels fresh and full all season long.

Best in: Full sun, adaptable to various soil conditions
Bonus: Great in mass plantings and excellent for erosion control

Think Beyond the Bloom

When pairing plants, look beyond just the flower. Consider:

• Foliage color and texture
• Bloom timing and duration
• Growth habit and height
• Light, soil, and moisture needs

When you match these elements thoughtfully, your garden will look effortlessly cohesive and naturally beautiful.

Need Help Planning Your Perfect Pairings?

Our expert team is here to help! We offer retail consultations and custom design services tailored to your space and style.

Visit our garden center in Willowbrook
Call 630-323-1411, Option #3
Or email: retaildesign@hinsdalenurseries.com

Let’s grow something beautiful together.