Hydrangeas are the stars, but let’s be honest—they need a good supporting cast to really shine. That’s where ornamental grasses come in. With their soft textures, breezy movement, and just the right contrast, they bring balance, depth, and a little extra drama to your garden.
Think tall plumes swaying behind bold blooms or low mounds of texture that make those colors pop even more. These 33 stunning grasses aren’t just background—they’re the ultimate garden wingmen your hydrangeas didn’t know they needed.
1. Feather Reed Grass
Whenever you want height in your garden, think of a towering friend. Enter the Feather Reed Grass, boasting upright, narrow stalks that seem to whisper secrets to the wind. Its elegant vertical presence complements the bushy hydrangeas perfectly.
This grass is a low-maintenance gardener’s dream. Known for its resilience, it thrives in both wet and dry conditions, laughing in the face of adversity. In combination with hydrangeas, it creates a dynamic duo that’s hard to beat. Your garden will thank you for this pairing.
2. Blue Fescue
For those who adore a pop of color, there’s a cool contender. Blue Fescue steps up with its striking blue-green tufts that form gentle mounds. It’s like nature’s way of adding a blueish brushstroke.
Plant it near pink or white hydrangeas, and you’ve got a color palette worthy of an impressionist painting. It’s hardy, drought-tolerant, and very forgiving, making it a favorite among laid-back gardeners. This little grass surely knows how to make a statement without stealing the show.
3. Pennisetum ‘Hameln’
Sometimes, you need a little fuzz to soften the garden vibe. Pennisetum ‘Hameln’ offers fluffy flower spikes that sway above its green foliage. It’s the garden’s equivalent of soft jazz, blending effortlessly with its surroundings.
Paired with hydrangeas, it’s not just about looks; it’s about creating a sensory experience. The gentle movement and texture of Pennisetum draw you in, while the vibrant hydrangeas keep you entertained. Together, they create a rhythmic dance that’s calming and delightful.
4. Japanese Forest Grass
In the world of shade lovers, there’s always room for elegance. Japanese Forest Grass brings a touch of the exotic with its cascading leaves in shades of gold and green. It’s like the silk kimono of the plant world.
When partnered with hydrangeas, it offers a gentle contrast in both form and color. Perfect for shady spots, this duo transforms a dull area into a serene retreat. The Japanese Forest Grass thrives in moisture, making it a reliable companion for the water-loving hydrangeas.
5. Switchgrass
For a touch of the prairie, consider a graceful addition. Switchgrass brings its tall, airy stems to the garden, dancing with the slightest breeze. It’s like having a bit of nature’s poetry right in your backyard.
Standing tall with hydrangeas, these two create a textural symphony. Switchgrass is a versatile plant, thriving in a variety of soils and conditions. It’s also a native plant, which means it’s made for the job. Together, they create an easy-going yet compelling landscape.
6. Maiden Grass
When it comes to elegance, there’s a seasoned contender. Maiden Grass, with its towering stature and feathery plumes, offers a majestic presence in any garden. Planted alongside hydrangeas, it creates a visual symphony of textures.
The hydrangeas provide bursts of color, while the Maiden Grass offers a gentle, constant sway. This pairing is a testament to harmony in nature, proving that opposites attract and complement each other beautifully.
7. Little Bluestem
Looking for a plant with personality? Here’s a character you won’t forget. Little Bluestem stands out with its striking blue-green stems that shift colors with the seasons.
Next to hydrangeas, it plays the perfect supporting role, adding texture and contrast. It’s drought-tolerant, making it a sturdy choice for any garden. This plant is all about the drama, in the best way possible. When autumn arrives, its colors deepen, creating a stunning backdrop for the hydrangeas’ fall blooms.
8. Muhly Grass
For a touch of whimsy, add this playful performer. Muhly Grass delights with its cotton candy-like plumes that rise above green foliage. It’s like a garden party in itself. When these pinkish plumes meet the blooms of hydrangeas, the result is pure garden magic.
Easy to grow in sunny spots, Muhly Grass demands little but offers much. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate low-maintenance beauty with a hint of flair. Together, they transform any garden into a scene worth celebrating.
9. Purple Fountain Grass
For those who love drama, there’s a star performer. Purple Fountain Grass commands attention with its burgundy plumes and arching stems. This grass is the diva of the garden, bold and unapologetic.
The combination with hydrangeas is a sight to behold, offering a stunning contrast in both color and form. This grass is easy to care for, requiring minimal fuss while delivering maximum impact. It’s ideal for those who want a garden that makes a statement without saying a word.
10. Sedge Grass
In a world of bold choices, subtlety can steal the show. Sedge Grass is the unsung hero, with its fine-textured leaves providing a gentle contrast to larger blooms. This plant thrives in damp areas, making it an ideal partner for hydrangeas.
Together, they create a lush, layered effect that’s both soothing and stylish. The Sedge Grass is easy to manage, so you can enjoy a beautiful garden without the headache. It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate understated grace.
11. Giant Miscanthus
When size matters, think big. Giant Miscanthus stands tall, flaunting its silvery plumes that shimmer in the sunlight. It’s the skyscraper of ornamental grasses. With hydrangeas at its base, the result is a stunning visual display that captures attention and admiration.
Despite its grand appearance, Giant Miscanthus is surprisingly easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance. This pairing creates a garden that speaks volumes, without a word. Perfect for those who love a little grandeur in their outdoor space.
12. Northern Sea Oats
In the realm of textures, here’s a unique player. Northern Sea Oats bring an interesting twist with their flat, drooping seed heads that rustle gently in the wind. These intriguing features make them a perfect companion for the delicate blooms of hydrangeas.
Easy to grow and manage, Northern Sea Oats thrive in a variety of conditions, offering both beauty and resilience. Together, they create a captivating display that’s pleasing to both the eyes and the ears. It’s a garden duet worth hearing.
13. Porcupine Grass
For those who appreciate a bit of quirkiness, here’s a standout choice. Porcupine Grass flaunts its unique yellow-banded leaves that catch the eye. Paired with hydrangeas, this grass adds a playful touch to any garden setting.
It’s hardy and adapts well to different environments, making it a reliable choice for gardeners. The combination of its distinctive look with the classic beauty of hydrangeas creates a fun yet elegant space. This is one duo you won’t want to miss in your landscaping plans.
14. Chinese Silver Grass
When you need a touch of shine, look no further. Chinese Silver Grass dazzles with its silvery flower heads that dance in the breeze. The combination with hydrangeas results in a garden that’s both sophisticated and charming.
This grass is easy to maintain and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a gardener’s delight. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a bit of sparkle without the hassle. Pairing it with hydrangeas brings out the best in both plants, creating a harmonious garden scene.
15. Zebra Grass
For those who love a little pattern, here’s a striped surprise. Zebra Grass brings its bold leaves with horizontal stripes to the garden party. Next to hydrangeas, it’s a visual feast, offering both contrast and complement.
This grass is low-maintenance and thrives in sunny spots, making it an easy addition to any garden. The combination of its striking appearance and the classic beauty of hydrangeas creates a lively and attractive garden setting. It’s a pairing that’s sure to impress.
16. Fountain Grass
In need of garden grace? Enter the elegant performer. Fountain Grass arches gracefully, its airy plumes adding a touch of romance to the scene. Combined with hydrangeas, it creates a soft and inviting garden space that’s hard to resist.
This grass is a favorite for those seeking beauty with minimal effort. It’s adaptable, thriving in various conditions, making it a versatile choice. Together, Fountain Grass and hydrangeas create a landscape that’s both pleasing to the eye and easy to maintain.
17. Pampas Grass
For grandeur in the garden, think tall and majestic. Pampas Grass stands out with its towering white plumes that demand attention. Next to hydrangeas, it provides a stunning backdrop that elevates the entire garden scene.
This grass is robust and thrives in sunny environments, requiring little attention once established. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a garden that impresses without constant upkeep. Together, they create a landscape that’s both dramatic and beautiful, offering a garden experience like no other.
18. Pink Muhly Grass
For those who love a splash of color, here’s a cotton candy treat. Pink Muhly Grass enchants with its soft pink plumes that sway gently with the breeze. Paired with hydrangeas, it creates a whimsical garden scene that’s both charming and cheerful.
It’s easy to grow and requires minimal care, making it a popular choice among busy gardeners. Together, Pink Muhly Grass and hydrangeas offer a playful yet elegant landscape that’s sure to delight all who visit.
19. Indian Grass
In search of a touch of the wild? Indian Grass brings a hint of the prairie to your garden with its tall, golden spikes. Next to hydrangeas, this grass adds a rustic charm that’s hard to resist. It’s resilient, thriving in various environments and requiring little maintenance.
This combination offers a natural, unrefined beauty that many gardeners find appealing. Together, Indian Grass and hydrangeas create a landscape that’s both unique and inviting, perfect for those who love nature’s untamed elegance.
20. Stipa Tenuissima
In the realm of soft textures, here’s a gentle contender. Stipa Tenuissima, also known as Mexican Feather Grass, brings an airy lightness to the garden. When combined with hydrangeas, it creates a visual dance that’s both calming and delightful.
This grass is easy to care for and thrives in sunny spots, making it a great choice for various garden settings. Together, they offer a serene landscape that’s both beautiful and relaxing. It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate subtle elegance.
21. Silver Beard Grass
For a touch of silver in the garden, this one’s a natural choice. Silver Beard Grass boasts shining, silvery-white spikes that catch the light beautifully. Alongside hydrangeas, it creates a striking contrast that’s both eye-catching and sophisticated.
This grass is easy to grow, requiring minimal attention, making it a favorite among gardeners who prefer a low-maintenance approach. Together, they create a landscape that’s both elegant and easy-going, offering a garden experience that’s simply delightful.
22. Sweet Flag Grass
For those who garden near water, here’s a bright choice. Sweet Flag Grass, with its vibrant green leaves, brings a touch of freshness to any garden. Next to hydrangeas, it creates a lush, inviting scene that’s hard to overlook.
This grass loves water, making it ideal for gardens with ponds or wet areas. Together, Sweet Flag Grass and hydrangeas offer a lively landscape that’s both cheerful and charming. It’s the perfect pairing for those who enjoy gardening by the water’s edge.
23. Quaking Grass
In a playful addition to the garden, consider this delightful choice. Quaking Grass brings tiny, dangling seed heads that dance with the slightest breeze. Paired with hydrangeas, it adds a whimsical touch that’s both fun and engaging.
This grass is easy to grow and manage, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a care-free garden experience. Together, they create a lively landscape that’s sure to bring joy to any gardener. It’s a pairing that celebrates the lighter side of gardening.
24. Golden Hakone Grass
For those garden areas in need of brightness, here’s a golden choice. Golden Hakone Grass, with its cascading yellow leaves, adds a splash of sunshine to shady spots. Near hydrangeas, it offers a cheerful contrast that brightens the garden.
This grass thrives in shade, making it perfect for those tricky areas where sun-loving plants struggle. Together, Golden Hakone Grass and hydrangeas create a serene landscape that’s both calming and invigorating. It’s a delightful pairing that’s sure to enhance any garden.
25. Lemon Grass
In the world of multitasking plants, here’s a fragrant option. Lemon Grass serves both culinary and ornamental purposes with its citrus-scented stalks. Next to hydrangeas, it adds a fresh twist to the garden, offering both beauty and utility.
This grass is easy to grow and maintain, thriving in sunny spots. Together, Lemon Grass and hydrangeas create a garden that’s not only visually appealing but also practical. It’s the perfect choice for those who love to combine form and function in their gardening efforts.
26. Silver Ravenna Grass
For those seeking drama, here’s a bold choice. Silver Ravenna Grass stands tall with its striking silvery plumes that sway grandly in the wind. Paired with hydrangeas, it offers a dramatic contrast that elevates the garden’s appeal.
This grass is robust and easy to care for, making it a favorite among busy gardeners. Together, Silver Ravenna Grass and hydrangeas create a landscape that’s both bold and beautiful, perfect for those who love a bit of theatre in their outdoor space.
27. Red Switch Grass
For a dash of color, here’s a dynamic addition. Red Switch Grass boasts vibrant reddish hues that add warmth to any garden. Next to hydrangeas, it creates an eye-catching display that’s both lively and inviting.
This grass is easy to grow and maintain, thriving in various conditions. Together, Red Switch Grass and hydrangeas offer a dynamic landscape that’s sure to attract attention. It’s the perfect pairing for those who love a garden that’s both colorful and carefree.
28. Autumn Moor Grass
In the realm of seasonal beauty, here’s a fine choice. Autumn Moor Grass brings its golden hues to the garden as the seasons change. Paired with hydrangeas, it offers a warm, inviting landscape that celebrates the beauty of fall.
This grass is easy to care for, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a hassle-free garden. Together, Autumn Moor Grass and hydrangeas create a scene that’s both comforting and charming, perfect for those who love to celebrate seasonal changes in their garden.
29. Bamboo Muhly
For a touch of the exotic, here’s a striking choice. Bamboo Muhly offers feathery foliage that brings a tropical feel to the garden. Next to hydrangeas, it creates an intriguing contrast that’s both exotic and elegant.
This grass is easy to grow and maintain, thriving in sunny spots. Together, Bamboo Muhly and hydrangeas create a landscape that’s both unique and inviting. It’s the perfect pairing for those who love to bring a touch of the tropics to their garden space.
30. Variegated Moor Grass
In need of a touch of flair? Variegated Moor Grass brings its striped leaves to the garden, creating a lively visual display. Paired with hydrangeas, it offers a playful contrast that’s both fun and engaging. This grass is easy to care for, making it a favorite among those who appreciate low-maintenance beauty.
Together, Variegated Moor Grass and hydrangeas create a garden scene that’s both vibrant and harmonious, perfect for those who enjoy a lively and cheerful garden.
31. Tufted Hair Grass
For those who appreciate texture, here’s a thick addition. Tufted Hair Grass offers dense, lush clumps that add a touch of softness to the garden. Next to hydrangeas, it creates a layered effect that’s both rich and appealing.
This grass is easy to grow and maintains well, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a full and abundant garden. Together, Tufted Hair Grass and hydrangeas create a landscape that’s both textured and inviting, perfect for those who love a garden with depth and dimension.
32. Mexican Feather Grass
In the dance of delicate textures, here’s a gentle choice. Mexican Feather Grass, with its soft, flowing texture, adds an airy lightness to the garden. When paired with hydrangeas, it creates a calming visual that’s both peaceful and inviting.
This grass is easy to care for and thrives in sunny spots, making it a great choice for various garden settings. Together, they offer a serene landscape that’s both beautiful and relaxing. It’s the perfect choice for those who appreciate subtle elegance.
33. Silver Grass
For a spark of shine, look no further. Silver Grass offers silvery fronds that catch the sun’s rays beautifully. Paired with hydrangeas, it creates a garden that’s both charming and sophisticated.
This grass is easy to maintain and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a gardener’s delight. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a bit of sparkle without the hassle. Together, Silver Grass and hydrangeas create a harmonious garden scene that’s sure to impress.