The combination of blue and white in gardens and floral arrangements creates an aesthetic of calm and sophistication, reminiscent of cool water and clear skies. This versatile palette is highly sought after for its versatility, offering a tranquil contrast to the warmer colors often found in nature. This look can be achieved by pairing separate species, utilizing naturally patterned blooms, or strategically combining smaller flowers. The following examples provide botanical options and design strategies for cultivating this elegant color scheme.
Species Available in Separate Blue and White Varieties
Many popular garden flowers offer distinct cultivars in both blue and white, allowing for intentional pairings. The tall, spire-like flowers of Delphinium are a favorite, available in striking blue and pure white. Planting them together creates a strong vertical contrast in borders. The white blooms provide a crisp visual separation for the deep blue spikes.
Hydrangea macrophylla is an adaptable shrub where blue and white versions contrast beautifully. The blue hue is chemically dependent on soil acidity; highly acidic soil maintains true blue, while neutral or alkaline soil allows white cultivars to maintain their color. Pairing blue and white mophead or lacecap varieties creates a voluminous, cloud-like effect. The white flowers appear luminous against the darker blue.
For smaller-scale spring interest, Hyacinthus orientalis (Hyacinths) provide a dense, fragrant spike in deep blue and porcelain white. The florets can be planted in alternating drifts for an early-season display. Similarly, the dainty, true-blue flowers of Myosotis scorpioides (Forget-Me-Nots) can be interplanted with white Anemone species. This creates a low, carpet-like effect that works well in partially shaded areas. The contrast in size and shape adds textural dimension to the color pairing.
Naturally Bicolored and Variegated Blooms
Some flowers naturally display both blue and white on the same bloom, providing an integrated aesthetic without needing separate plants. Certain Iris cultivars are known for bicolored patterns, such as bearded irises featuring blue falls (lower petals) and white standards (upper petals). This natural variegation highlights the complex structure of the flower, often with intricate veining where the two colors meet.
The common Ipomoea tricolor (Morning Glory) offers varieties like ‘Heavenly Blue’ with striking blue petals that transition to a bright white throat. This pattern creates a focal point at the center of the trumpet-shaped flower. Another example is the Aquilegia caerulea (Colorado Blue Columbine), which frequently exhibits spurred blossoms in shades of blue and white, with the colors delineated on the outer and inner parts of the bloom.
Certain Gentiana species, like Gentiana verna, boast an intense, vibrant blue with a distinct white center. This contrasting eye draws attention to the bloom’s depth. Specialty Petunia cultivars also feature this two-toned appearance, often with blue petals edged in white or possessing a white star pattern, making them popular for containers.
Strategic Combinations for the Blue and White Aesthetic
When large statement flowers are not feasible, the blue and white aesthetic can be achieved by pairing small, complementary species in mass plantings. White Lobularia maritima (Sweet Alyssum) is an excellent groundcover, forming a dense, fragrant mat. This white base can be planted beneath the spiky, deep blue flowers of Salvia species, such as Salvia nemorosa. The low, mounding texture of the Alyssum contrasts beautifully with the vertical lines of the blue Salvia spikes, creating a layered look.
Another effective pairing uses the trailing habit of blue Lobelia species, such as Lobelia erinus, which produces a profusion of small, intense blue blossoms. This can be combined with white Dianthus (Pinks) or white Petunia varieties. The white flowers provide a visual lift, making the intense blue appear more saturated. Using white foliage plants, like the silvery leaves of Artemisia or dusty miller, also contributes to the cool-toned aesthetic, adding a sophisticated, non-floral white element that lasts throughout the season.