30 Types of Sunflower Companion Plants

Discover the perfect Sunflower Companion Plants to create a thriving garden ecosystem. From pest deterrents to beneficial pollinators, learn about 30 plants that complement your sunflowers beautifully.

Sunflowers are a beloved addition to any garden, with their cheerful yellow petals and tall stalks. However, did you know that planting certain companion plants alongside your sunflowers can benefit their growth, deter pests, and create a more balanced garden ecosystem? In this article, we’ll explore 30 different plants that make excellent companions for sunflowers.

1. Marigolds

Scientific Name : Tagetes spp

Marigolds are a classic companion plant known for their ability to repel nematodes, microscopic worms that can damage plant roots. They also deter other pests like rabbits and deer with their strong scent. Planting marigolds around your sunflowers can help keep them healthy and protected.

2. Nasturtiums

Scientific Name : Tropaeolum

These edible flowers not only add a splash of color to your garden, but they also act as a trap crop, luring aphids and other pests away from your sunflowers. Nasturtiums are also believed to repel whiteflies, squash bugs, and certain beetles.

3. Radishes

Scientific Name : Raphanus sativus

Radishes are a fast-growing crop that can be planted alongside sunflowers. They help loosen the soil with their deep roots, making it easier for sunflowers to establish themselves. Radishes also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids and other pests.

4. Borage

Scientific Name : Borago officinalis

This annual herb with beautiful blue star-shaped flowers is a magnet for pollinating insects like bees and butterflies. Borage is also known to improve the flavor and growth of sunflowers and other plants when grown nearby.

5. Cosmos

Scientific Name : Cosmos

These cheerful flowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps, which help control pests in your garden. Cosmos also add a pop of color and complement the vibrant yellow of sunflowers.

6. Dill

Scientific Name : Anethum graveolens L

Dill is an excellent companion plant for sunflowers, as it attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of sunflowers when planted nearby.

7. Basil

Scientific Name : Ocimum basilicum

Not only does basil add a delicious aroma to your garden, but it also repels aphids, mosquitoes, and flies. Planting basil near your sunflowers can help keep these pests at bay while adding a splash of green to your garden.

8. Bee Balm

Scientific Name : Monarda didyma L.

As the name suggests, bee balm is a great plant for attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds to your garden. It also has a minty scent that can deter certain pests, making it a perfect companion for sunflowers.

9. Calendula

Scientific Name : Calendula officinalis

Also known as pot marigold, calendula is a beautiful addition to any garden and a great companion plant for sunflowers. It’s believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, and its strong scent can deter pests like rabbits and deer.

10. Chives

Scientific Name : Allium schoenoprasum

Chives are an easy-to-grow herb that can help repel aphids, Japanese beetles, and carrot flies when planted near sunflowers. They also attract beneficial insects like parasitic wasps and lacewings.

11. Coreopsis

Scientific Name : Coreopsis grandiflora

These cheerful yellow and orange flowers not only complement the color of sunflowers, but they also attract pollinators and beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to your garden.

12. Cosmos

Scientific Name : Cosmos

Cosmos are a beautiful addition to any garden, with their delicate petals and ferny foliage. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help improve the pollination of your sunflowers.

13. Daffodils

Scientific Name : Narcissus

Daffodils are more than just a pretty spring flower – they can also help repel pests like voles and deer from your garden. Planting them around your sunflowers can create a natural barrier against these unwanted visitors.

14. Fennel

Scientific Name : Foeniculum vulgare Mill 

Fennel is a fragrant herb that can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps to your garden. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, including sunflowers.

15. Geraniums

Scientific Name : Pelargonium

Geraniums are known for their ability to repel cabbage worms, Japanese beetles, and other pests with their strong scent. Planting them near your sunflowers can help keep these pests at bay.

16. Lavender

Scientific Name : Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia

Lavender is not only beautiful and fragrant, but it also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. It’s also believed to repel certain pests like fleas and moths.

17. Lemon Balm

Scientific Name : Melissa officinalis

This member of the mint family has a refreshing lemon scent that can help repel mosquitoes and other pests. Lemon balm also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, making it a great companion for sunflowers.

18. Marigolds (French and Mexican varieties)

Scientific Name : Tagetes patula), Mexican mint marigold (Tagetes lucida), and lemon marigold (Tagetes tenuifolia

Both French and Mexican marigolds are excellent companions for sunflowers. They not only repel nematodes and other pests with their strong scent, but they also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings.

19. Mint

Scientific Name : Lamiaceae

Mint is a versatile herb that can be used in cooking, teas, and even as a natural pest repellent. Planting it near your sunflowers can help deter aphids, flea beetles, and other pests while also attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

20. Parsley

Scientific Name : Petroselinum crispum

This common herb not only adds flavor to your dishes, but it can also help attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to your garden. Parsley is also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, including sunflowers.

21. Petunias

Scientific Name : Petunia

Petunias are known for their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. They also have a strong scent that can help repel certain pests like aphids and leafhoppers.

22. Rosemary

Scientific Name : Rosemarinus officinalis

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that can help repel cabbage moths, carrot flies, and other pests from your garden. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, making it a great companion for sunflowers.

23. Rue

Scientific Name : Ruta graveolens

Rue is a hardy perennial herb that can help repel Japanese beetles, cucumber beetles, and other pests with its strong scent. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, including sunflowers.

24. Sage

Scientific Name : Salvia officinalis

Sage is a beautiful and fragrant herb that can help attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to your garden. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, making it a great companion for sunflowers.

25. Shasta Daisies

Scientific Name : Leucanthemum × superbum

These cheerful white flowers not only complement the bright yellow of sunflowers, but they also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to your garden.

26. Sunflowers (different varieties)

Scientific Name : Helianthus annuus

Planting different varieties of sunflowers together can not only add visual interest to your garden, but it can also help attract a wider range of pollinators and beneficial insects.

27. Tansy

Scientific Name : Tanacetum vulgare L.

Tansy is a hardy perennial herb that can help repel cucumber beetles, Japanese beetles, and other pests with its strong scent. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, including sunflowers.

28. Thyme

Scientific Name : Thymus vulgaris

Thyme is a fragrant herb that can help repel cabbage worms, whiteflies, and other pests from your garden. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, making it a great companion for sunflowers.

29. Yarrow

Scientific Name : Achillea millefolium

Yarrow is a hardy perennial that can help attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to your garden. It’s also believed to improve the growth and flavor of nearby plants, including sunflowers.

30. Zinnias

Scientific Name : Zinnia elegans 

These vibrant flowers not only add a pop of color to your garden, but they also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help improve the pollination of your sunflowers.

By incorporating these companion plants into your garden, you’ll not only create a more balanced and thriving ecosystem, but you’ll also enjoy a beautiful and productive sunflower patch. Remember to research the specific needs of each plant and ensure that they are compatible with your local climate and growing conditions.

Other plants, like dill and fennel, may need to be planted at a slight distance from your sunflowers to avoid competition for resources. Consult seed packets or reputable gardening resources for specific spacing recommendations.

Additionally, consider incorporating companion plants that have different bloom times throughout the growing season. This can help ensure a consistent supply of nectar and pollen for pollinators, as well as a steady presence of pest-deterring plants in your garden.

By carefully selecting and arranging your sunflower companion plants, you can create a beautiful and harmonious garden that not only delights the senses but also promotes a healthy and balanced ecosystem for your beloved sunflowers to thrive.