From Soulmates to Frenemies: Plant Pairings for Resilient Landscapes
As Landscape Architects, we carefully select a plant palete that works together in harmony, considering factors like soil, water, and biodiversity. Some species support each other, creating resilient ecosystems, while others compete or disrupt—reminding us that not all relationships are meant to be.
This Valentine’s Day we’ve asked our designers to define relationships—plant relationships, that is. We’re sharing how plants thrive (or don’t) together in the landscapes.
opposites attract: turk’s cap + bicolor iris:
Love stories can be unexpected but just work. Take Turk’s Cap. When it steps into the sun, it transforms into a showstopper—bold, bright, and full of energy. Pair it with the elegant, grassy textures of Bicolor Iris, and you’ve got a striking duo that’s as surprising as it is stunning.
It’s a case of opposites attracting: Turk’s Cap brings the drama with its vibrant blooms, while Bicolor Iris balances the look with its refined, sword-like foliage. Together, they create a dynamic, sun-drenched display that keeps the landscape—and onlookers—on their toes.
Plant pairing provided by: Samantha Whitney
the perfect match: fall aster + goldenrod
Some pairs just belong together—like Fall Aster and Goldenrod. Blooming in unison, their complementary purple and yellow flowers create a stunning contrast, making each other shine even brighter. They’re the kind of duo that turns heads in the landscape and has pollinators swooning.
Together, they don’t just look good—they do good, attracting bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators with their irresistible floral chemistry. A match made in botanical heaven.
Plant pairing provided by: Adam Shriver
the toxic duo: ligustrum + nandina
You know the duo that thrives on drama? That’s Ligustrum and Nandina. Always evergreen and effortlessly attractive, they fool people into thinking they belong—but in reality, they’re invasive, overbearing, and downright destructive.
They take over our creek’s riparian edges, suffocating native plants and causing erosion with their weak, shallow roots. And just when you think you’ve finally gotten rid of them? They pop back up uninvited.
Plant pairing provided by: Tabitha Tattenbach
power couple: cinnamon girl distylium + gulf coast muhly
Some pairs are built to last, weathering every storm. Cinnamon Girl Distylium and Gulf Coast Muhly are that dependable duo, thriving through freezes, droughts, and everything in between.
Distylium is the steady, reliable partner, providing evergreen structure and support, while Muhly brings the seasonal magic, lighting up the landscape with its signature pink plumes. Together, they’re the perfect balance of consistency and flair—proof that the best relationships are both dependable and dazzling.
Plant pairing provided by: Katie Summers
texas two step: mexican feather grass + agave
Few pairings capture the spirit of Texas landscapes quite like Mexican Feather Grass and Agave. Mexican Feather Grass’ soft flowing shoots sway with the breeze, while Agave stands its ground with bold, sculptural form.
Tough, drought-tolerant, and effortlessly stunning, this duo thrives in the toughest conditions—just like true Texans. Whether in a prairie setting or a modern design, they prove that contrast isn’t just eye-catching, it’s iconic.
Plant pairing provided anonymously
At TBG, we don’t just design for aesthetics—we design for resilience, biodiversity, and long-term ecological health. The right plant pairings strengthen the landscape, while the wrong ones can cause lasting harm. By choosing plants that work in harmony, we can create spaces that thrive, support pollinators, and withstand changing climates—because the best relationships don’t just look good, they make a lasting impact.