Lavender is a sun-worshipper through and through, which means it’s a bit picky about its neighbors. To keep your lavender happy, you need to pair it with plants that share its love for the spotlight. Here’s the lowdown on which plants make the best companions and what you need to keep in mind when designing your garden beds.
The Perfect Spot for Lavender
Lavender thrives best in dry, well-draining soil that isn’t too rich in nutrients. If you’re looking for garden buddies to plant alongside it, they need to be just as tough. We’re talking about plants that can handle “lean” soil and don’t mind a lack of fertilizer—lavender usually only needs a feeding once a year, if at all.
Sunlight is the other big deal. Lavender won’t stand for the shade; it needs full sun to really show off. This means you can’t tuck it under large, leafy shrubs or trees that will block its rays. While that rules out quite a few plants, there are still plenty of great options that love the heat just as much as lavender does.
How to Create the Best Lavender Combinations
A great rule of thumb is to look toward rock garden plants. Anything that thrives in a gravel bed or a xeriscape design is usually a perfect match. While many rock garden staples are low-growing greenery, lavender adds height and those iconic purple pops of color. During its blooming season, it brings a gorgeous Mediterranean vibe to your backyard.
These plants are great companions for lavender:
- Allium (Ornamental Onions)
- Lily Turf or Grass Lilies
- Sage
- Pinks (Dianthus)
- Thyme
Beyond just looking pretty in a gravel garden, you can use lavender to anchor a fragrant “aroma garden.” These spaces are designed to fill your yard with incredible scents. Many of these companions—like sage and thyme—are culinary staples, just like lavender itself. Just remember to keep an eye on your watering routine to make sure everyone stays hydrated without getting soggy feet!
