Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

299 other cultivars

perennial

'Bashful' Plantain Lily

Hosta x hybrida 'Bashful'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Bashful' is a shade-loving perennial distinguished by its lush, broad, and ovate leaves with a slightly rippled margin, producing tall flower spikes of lavender or pale purple blooms in summer.

A small hosta with heart-shaped leaves that emerge chartreuse with a narrow dark green margin. The leaf centers brighten to creamy white as the season progresses. Forms a compact mound ideal for borders and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Hosta Bashful adds lush greenery and soft lavender blooms, enhancing shaded garden areas with its attractive foliage.

Its deer resistance makes it ideal for low-maintenance shaded borders.

Provides habitat and cover for beneficial insects and small wildlife.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Many years with proper care

Native To

Northeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into well-prepared shade garden beds.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide in early spring or fall every 3–4 years to promote growth.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, well-draining soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Divide every 3–4 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
Skip fertilizing during dormant winter months

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderSilver-foliaged hedgeColorful container accent

Companion Plants

AstilbeFerns HeucheraJapanese painted fern Pulmonaria

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Bashful' Plantain Lily questions

What zones can 'Bashful' Plantain Lily grow in?

'Bashful' Plantain Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is 'Bashful' Plantain Lily deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse 'Bashful' Plantain Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does 'Bashful' Plantain Lily bloom?

'Bashful' Plantain Lily typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does 'Bashful' Plantain Lily need full sun?

'Bashful' Plantain Lily does best in part shade.