Bluebeard (botanically known as *Caryopteris x clandonensis*) is a charming, small-to-medium shrub that often gets the spotlight as a standalone specimen. But don’t let that limit your creativity! These woody perennials are actually fantastic team players and look incredible when paired with the right garden companions.
What should I keep in mind when choosing companions for Bluebeard?
When you’re picking out neighbors for your Bluebeard, the golden rule is to choose plants that share the same basic needs for soil and sunlight. You’ll want to look for “garden buddies” that:
- Thrive in full sun
- Are drought-tolerant once established
- Prefer well-draining, loose, and organic-rich soil
Additionally, since Bluebeard doesn’t mind a bit of lime in the soil, it’s a perfect fit for rock gardens, heather gardens, or even prairie-style landscapes.
Which plants pair best with Bluebeard?
The sky is the limit when it comes to styling Bluebeard! Since this shrub usually tops out around 3 to 4 feet tall, it looks best when surrounded by medium or low-growing plants. Here are some of my favorite go-to companions:
- Sweet Alyssum (*Lobularia maritima*)
- Stonecrop (mid-sized *Sedum* varieties)
- Cinquefoil (*Potentilla*)
- Garden Mums (*Chrysanthemum × grandiflorum*)
- Autumn Daisies (*Leucanthemella serotina*)
- Aster (cushion or creeping varieties)
- Blanket Flower (*Gaillardia aristata*)
- Lavender (*Lavandula*)
- Low-growing Sedum (like Goldmoss Stonecrop)
- Candytuft (*Iberis*)
- Short ornamental grasses
Can I mix and match different Bluebeard varieties?
Absolutely! You can combine different varieties of Bluebeard for a textured look. Just keep in mind that most popular cultivars, like “Heavenly Blue,” bloom in shades of deep blue. If you want a little color contrast, look for specific varieties like “Stephi,” which offers delicate pink blossoms.
Pairing Bluebeard with Roses
Bluebeard and roses make for a stunning, classic visual duo. However, they can be a bit of a “difficult couple” because they have different soil preferences. To make this relationship work, give them plenty of breathing room. By leaving enough space between them, you can cater to each plant’s specific needs. A great pro-tip is to plant your roses in the center of the bed and use the Bluebeard as a beautiful border plant along the edges.