Fragrant Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginea
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Hosta plantaginea is known for its large, glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers that appear in late summer. Known as the 'Fragrant Hosta' for its sweet-scented, evening-blooming flowers. It is more sun-tolerant than many other hosta species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck healthy rhizomes into well-drained, humus-rich soil in shaded or partial sun areas.
- Mist cuttings or division sections lightly to maintain moisture during root development.
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Monitor for pests and diseases, and treat promptly to maintain healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Plant in dappled shade for best foliage color and minimal leaf scorch.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Mulch annually to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth
- Use organic compost to enrich soil quality
Don't
- Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
- Don’t let soil dry out completely between watering
- Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause floppy foliage
- Never ignore pests like slugs and aphids
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Fragrant Plantain Lily questions
What zones can Fragrant Plantain Lily grow in?
Fragrant 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 Fragrant Plantain Lily deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Fragrant Plantain Lily, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Fragrant Plantain Lily bloom?
Fragrant Plantain Lily typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Fragrant Plantain Lily need full sun?
Fragrant Plantain Lily does best in part shade.
More Hosta to compare
Blue Mouse Ears Hosta
Hosta cordifolia 'Blue Mouse Ears'
June Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'June'
Fire Island Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'Fire Island'
Patriot Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginea 'Patriot'
Hosta Goldrush
Hosta x hybrida 'Goldrush'
Empress Wu Hosta
Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Fragrant Plantain Lily with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
