Aralia Sun King won the “perennial plant of the year” award in 2020. While that doesn’t necessarily mean Aralia Sun King is the best plant for your garden, it does showcase this plant’s excellent performance. Aralias are low-maintenance plants with low susceptibility to pests and diseases. This plant is not only a versatile addition to your garden but can also add density and brightness. Indeed, it produces golden-green leaves that will become the center of your garden!
While the sun King plant can do well on its own, adding a couple of companions won’t harm. Indeed, companion plants can improve the soil nutrient content and create optimal conditions for your Aralia Sun King plants to thrive. However, make sure you live in USDA hardiness zones between 3 and 9 to ensure you can provide your plants with what they need. After all, companions can support your plant’s growth but won’t guarantee its survival.
Keep reading our essential guide to learning more about Aralia Sun King Companion Plants.
Astilbe
Astilbe is a stunning perennial that likes moisture and shade as Aralia Sun King does. Plus, they thrive in acid soils and, just like Aralias, prefer partial shade. If you want to add some contrast to the green foliage of the aralia sun king, consider adding astilbe. With their tall and fluffy plume-like flowers, they will for sure help you make a statement with your garden!
Hosta
Hostas are ideal additions to most gardens that need density and brightly colored foliage. Most gardeners appreciate their colorful leaves and like how easy they grow (without much intervention). Hostas make perfect companions for aralias because they have similar requirements and can help with water retention. Their roots are not invasive, allowing for a peaceful mutual relationship.
Depending on the variety, you can grow them as garden beds or as tall plants (some species, under the right conditions, will group up to four feet tall!). If you decide to select a taller variety, hosta can provide your aralia Sun King with some rest from the bright, direct sunlight of the summer months. Indeed, contrary to what you may expect from its name, Aralia Sun King grows best in partial to full shade. If you enjoy a deeper color, consider planting hostas as companion plants.
Columbine
Columbine usually likes direct sun. However, in the southern states, it will prefer a shady spot. That is particularly true with hot and dry summers. For this, they make perfect companions to Aralia Sun King plants.
Also, their brightly colored purple blooms will make your garden more attractive, especially when paired with Aralias. The contrast between the golden-green foliage and the deep purple will look stunning, trust us!
Bleeding Heart
Among shade-lovers flowering plants, bleeding hearts are arguably the most attractive. If you plant your Aralia sun king somewhere that receives little sunlight, these plants will perform well as companions. Make sure you add some mulch to the soil to ensure both plants receive all the nutrients they need and enjoy the show!
Black-Eyed Susan
While these plants generally prefer plenty of sunlight, they do well as Aralia Sun King Companion Plants. Make sure they get some sun in the afternoon to improve blooming.
Indeed, these flowers are a powerful addition to your garden, especially if you have many plants. They can attract beneficial pollinators and deter most pests. Also, while black-eyed Susans can be invasive under the sun, being close to aralia makes them grow in a more manageable manner.
Ferns
Ferns might not be as aesthetically appealing as aralia’s companion plants but will provide your Sun Kings with some benefits. When adequately watered, ferns will increase water retention in the soil and add weight to your garden. Plus, they thrive in moist and rich soils, just like Aralia Sun Kings.
Aralia Sun King Companion Plants: The Bottom Line
Adding a perennial to your garden is never a bad idea. While most plants will thrive with adequate care, adding the right companion plants can make a difference in your yard’s aesthetics and your plant’s growth. Indeed, beneficial plants can attract pollinators, deter pests, and improve the soil’s conditions. However, you will still have to take care of them: make sure you select species that will do well in your hardiness zones.
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