I'm not quite catching the point of this thread ??? Is it a question, or is it a combination you already have and like???

Anyway, doesn't seem to be the best pairing due to sun requirements. Although it could work in the ideal location. Knockout wants all the sun it can get and the hydrangea wants some protection.

I would second what Ibanez says. Many people try to grow Knockout in the shade--but then complain that it doesn't bloom much or that it gets blackspot (the usual results when people try to grow roses in too much shade). Roses are sun-lovers.

And in my experience, Nikko Blue benefits more from shade than almost any other hydrangea I have ever grown.

It might not be a noticeable problem now, but as the season wears on, I think you might find that one or the other plant is getting far too much sun or shade (depending on where you planted them). I'd move Knockout into the sun now before it gets those big roots--that thorny rose is hard to move once it settles in.

But colorwise, I can see why you liked the two together.

Kate

I have a very small back yard. The hydrangea gets the shade of a maple tree. The rose is in the sun.

With one glance I'm able to take it all in looking out my patio door.

Very nice.

I understand what you're all getting at. But when these are the only two major blooming plants that you can see at the same time, it is quite a sight.

I wouldn't have thought to put them together but I bet it's beautiful. Can you post a pic? I just might give it a try :)