1 named cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
A genus of herbaceous perennials grown primarily for their beautiful, often variegated, foliage that comes in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are a mainstay of shade gardens.
Cultivars range from miniature plants only a few inches wide to giants over six feet across. Leaf colors include shades of green, blue, gold, and white, often with striking variegation.
Uses & Benefits:
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
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Japan, China, Korea
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck rhizomes into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings or divide plants in spring or fall for propagation.
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Remove dead leaves in fall to maintain plant health.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Do water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Do mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Do divide clumps every 3-4 years for vigorous growth
Don't
- Don't expose to direct, harsh afternoon sun ❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Don't forget to remove dead foliage to prevent disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
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 summer through early fall. 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'
Patriot Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginea 'Patriot'
June Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'June'
Fire Island Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'Fire Island'
Empress Wu Hosta
Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu'
Hosta Goldrush
Hosta x hybrida 'Goldrush'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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.