Ivory Halo Dogwood Companion Plants

The Beauty of Ivory Halo Dogwood and Its Companion Plants

Are you looking for a strikingly beautiful plant to add to your landscape? Look no further than the ivory halo dogwood! With its stunning white and green variegated leaves and red stems, this shrub is sure to catch the eye of anyone passing by. But did you know that there are many other plants that can complement the beauty of the ivory halo dogwood? In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best companion plants for this popular landscaping shrub.

What is Ivory Halo Dogwood?

Before we dive into the various companion plants that pair well with the ivory halo dogwood, let's take a closer look at what this plant actually is. Ivory halo dogwood (Cornus alba 'Bailhalo') is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to be between 5 and 8 feet tall and wide. It is known for its striking variegated leaves, which are green with white margins, as well as its bright red stems. The ivory halo dogwood is native to Korea and parts of China, but it has become a popular landscaping plant in many other parts of the world.

The Best Companion Plants for Ivory Halo Dogwood

When choosing companion plants for your ivory halo dogwood, it's important to consider factors such as color, texture, and growth habit. Here are some of the best options to consider:

1. Hostas

Hostas are a great companion plant for ivory halo dogwood because they provide a nice contrast in texture. The large, broad leaves of the hosta create a nice backdrop for the smaller leaves of the dogwood. Additionally, hostas come in a wide variety of colors, so you can choose a shade that complements your ivory halo dogwood.

How to Plant Hostas with Ivory Halo Dogwood?

When planting hostas with your ivory halo dogwood, make sure to give them plenty of space. Hostas prefer shade, so plant them on the north side of the dogwood or under trees. Make sure to keep the soil moist, as hostas prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.

2. Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are another great companion plant for ivory halo dogwood. They provide a nice pop of color with their large, showy blooms, and they also complement the dogwood's variegated leaves.

How to Plant Hydrangeas with Ivory Halo Dogwood?

When planting hydrangeas with your ivory halo dogwood, make sure to give them plenty of space, as they can grow quite large. Hydrangeas prefer moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, so make sure to amend the soil before planting. They also prefer partial shade, so plant them on the east or west side of the dogwood.

3. Coral Bells

Coral bells (Heuchera) are a great choice for a groundcover beneath your ivory halo dogwood. They come in a wide variety of colors, from bright green to deep purple, and their delicate foliage provides a nice contrast to the bold leaves of the dogwood.

How to Plant Coral Bells with Ivory Halo Dogwood?

When planting coral bells with your ivory halo dogwood, make sure to choose a variety that complements the color of your dogwood. Coral bells prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and they prefer partial shade. Plant them on the north or east side of the dogwood for best results.

4. Japanese Forest Grass

Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra) is a great choice for a groundcover beneath your ivory halo dogwood. Its slender, arching leaves provide a nice contrast to the bold leaves of the dogwood, and its bright green color complements the variegated leaves of the dogwood.

How to Plant Japanese Forest Grass with Ivory Halo Dogwood?

When planting Japanese forest grass with your ivory halo dogwood, make sure to give it plenty of space to spread. It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and it prefers partial shade. Plant it on the north or east side of the dogwood for best results.

5. Black-Eyed Susans

Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) are a great choice for adding a pop of color to your landscape. They have bright yellow petals and a dark center, which provides a nice contrast to the white and green leaves of the dogwood.

How to Plant Black-Eyed Susans with Ivory Halo Dogwood?

When planting black-eyed Susans with your ivory halo dogwood, make sure to choose a variety that complements the color of your dogwood. Black-eyed Susans prefer full sun and well-draining soil, so plant them on the south or west side of the dogwood.

Caring for Your Ivory Halo Dogwood and Companion Plants

Now that you know some of the best companion plants for your ivory halo dogwood, it's important to know how to care for them. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Watering

All of the companion plants listed above prefer moist, well-draining soil. Make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells.

2. Fertilizing

Most of the companion plants listed above prefer soil that is rich in organic matter. You can amend your soil with compost or another organic fertilizer to provide the nutrients that these plants need.

3. Pruning

Ivory halo dogwood should be pruned in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. You can also prune it lightly throughout the growing season to maintain its shape and size.



When it comes to choosing companion plants for your ivory halo dogwood, the options are nearly endless. Whether you're looking for a pop of color, a contrast in texture, or a groundcover to fill in bare spots, there's a plant out there that will complement your dogwood perfectly. Just remember to choose plants that have similar growing requirements and to give them plenty of space to thrive.

FAQs about Ivory Halo Dogwood Companion Plants

1. Can I plant any type of hosta with my ivory halo dogwood?

Yes, you can plant any variety of hosta with your ivory halo dogwood, as long as it complements the color of your dogwood.

2. How often should I water my hydrangeas?

Hydrangeas prefer moist soil, so make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells.

3. Can I plant black-eyed Susans in full shade?

No, black-eyed Susans prefer full sun, so make sure to plant them in a sunny spot.

4. How do I prune my ivory halo dogwood?

Prune your ivory halo dogwood in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. You can also prune it lightly throughout the growing season to maintain its shape and size.

5. Do coral bells prefer shade or sun?

Coral bells prefer partial shade, so make sure to plant them in a spot that gets some shade during the day.