Garden hybrid

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

298 other cultivars

perennial

Benedict Strain Plantain Lily

Hosta x hybrida 'Benedict Strain'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Benedict Strain' is a deciduous perennial known for its broad, lush foliage and elegant, bell-shaped flowers that typically bloom in shades of lavender or white during summer.

Plants from the Benedict Strain are highly valued by collectors and breeders. They originate from the work of Dr. Herb Benedict and are known for their unique genetics, often serving as parents for many famous streaked and variegated cultivars.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush foliage year-round, adding texture and color to shaded areas.

Suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion in shaded garden beds.

Supports beneficial insects and provides habitat in woodland gardens.

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 humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded spot with moist, well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divisions into the soil, keeping roots moist, in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
Transplant young plants in spring after last frost for best results.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Divide every 3-4 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from heavy fertilization which can cause weak growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden borderPlant along woodland edgesCreate a lush groundcover

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Benedict Strain Plantain Lily questions

What zones can Benedict Strain Plantain Lily grow in?

Benedict Strain 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 Benedict Strain Plantain Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Benedict Strain Plantain Lily bloom?

Benedict Strain 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 Benedict Strain Plantain Lily need full sun?

Benedict Strain Plantain Lily does best in part shade.