Red ranunculus and geranium
hold their own against a sea
of yellow calendula and other
flowers.

Red Plus One

Reds highlight otherwise subdued colors so they'll be noticed. Warm colors intensify when stationed next to red. Cool classics, such as green and white, suddenly look fresh and sparkling when a dash of red is applied among them.

Green, especially, gains vibrancy in the company of its complement: red. The green-and-red leaves of caladium or Euphorbia x martinii look spectacular combined with deep red flowers, including tuberous begonia, fuchsia, and Lobelia cardinalis. Unusual green flowers, such as hellebore or bells of Ireland, go well with reddish-foliage plants. Rich reds, found in roses and peonies, create beautiful relationships with the chartreuse leaves and flowers of lady's mantle or cushion spurge. Any green or chartreuse shrub glows in the company of a red Japanese maple.

Red and yellow make a happy blend of two warm temperaments. Such strong colors should register equal intensity to combine successfully, golden yellow with bright red, for example. When yellow flowers sport contrasting red centers or markings, such as daylilies, tulips, Coreopsis tinctoria, gaillardia, and helenium, the bond grows even stronger.

Red adds a pulse to all-white plantings. White and red roses provide a classic look among dark green foliage. A ribbon of white mums winding around a fall-reddened tree or shrub looks exquisite. Likewise, Japanese blood grass mixing with 'Snowbank' boltonia or white asters create a stellar combination.

Related Slide Show: Best Red Flowers for Your Garden