Hosta
Hosta x hybrida 'Emeralds and Rubies'
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
Perennial
Native To
Northeast Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
The Story
Plant Bio
Hostas are clump-forming herbaceous perennials grown primarily for their decorative foliage. Leaves vary greatly by cultivar in size, shape, and color. Bell-shaped, sometimes fragrant flowers are borne on tall scapes in summer. Distinguished by its glossy, emerald green leaves held on striking, deep ruby-red petioles. The rich red color extends from the stalk up into the base of the leaf, creating a dramatic contrast with the green.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes into well-drained soil in spring
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
- Apply mulch around base for moisture retention
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
- Remove dead foliage in late fall to winter
- Place in partial shade for best foliage color
Pro Tip
Ensure soil is rich and moist for vibrant foliage and blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
- Apply balanced fertilizer in spring
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not place in full sun, which can scorch leaves ❌
- Skip fertilizing in late fall
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
Hosta questions
What zones can Hosta grow in?
Hosta 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 Hosta deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Hosta, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Hosta bloom?
Hosta 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 Hosta need full sun?
Hosta 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
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Hosta 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.
