Species

Hosta ventricosaHosta ventricosa

14 other cultivars

perennial

Gold-blotched Plantain Lily

Hosta ventricosa 'Aureomaculata'

Same species

Species

Hosta ventricosaHosta ventricosa

14 other cultivars

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

22 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

China

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta ventricosa is a clump-forming perennial with glossy, heart-shaped, dark green leaves. In summer, it bears scapes of bell-shaped, deep violet flowers. The species is notable for its fertile flowers, which is uncommon among many hosta species. The 'Aureomaculata' cultivar is distinguished by its spring foliage, which emerges with a creamy-yellow center and dark green margins. This variegation is ephemeral, with the leaves turning a uniform dark green by mid-summer.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, variegated foliage that brightens shaded areas.

Helps suppress weeds in shaded garden beds.

Supports beneficial insects with its foliage and habitat.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into shaded soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist for best growth.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.
Protect from harsh winter winds with mulch or cover.

Pro Tip

Plant in shady 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 temperature
Fertilize annually with organic compost
Divide in early spring for best results

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not overwater, risk root rot
Skip fertilizing during late fall and winter
Do not disturb roots when dividing

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

Shaded woodland garden borderSilver-foliaged hedgeColorful container centerpiece

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Japanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gold-blotched Plantain Lily questions

What zones can Gold-blotched Plantain Lily grow in?

Gold-blotched 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 Gold-blotched Plantain Lily deer resistant?

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

When does Gold-blotched Plantain Lily bloom?

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

Does Gold-blotched Plantain Lily need full sun?

Gold-blotched Plantain Lily does best in part shade.