Garden hybrid

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

299 other cultivars

perennial

Hosta Dear Heart

Hosta x hybrida 'Dear Heart'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Dear Heart' is a perennial shade-loving plant known for its compact, rounded clumps of lush, variegated foliage with heart-shaped leaves and tall flower spikes bearing lavender flowers.

This cultivar is distinguished by its compact size and vibrant, variegated leaf pattern, making it an attractive choice for shaded garden borders and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush greenery and vibrant foliage, perfect for shaded areas.

Helps suppress weeds and retains soil moisture.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators.

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

6 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Northeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seedling roots into prepared soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring for best growth.
Protect from direct afternoon sun in hot climates.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for vibrant foliage and prolonged bloom.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool
Divide in early spring to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose to harsh afternoon sun in hot climates
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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shade garden borderSilver-foliaged hedgeCool-toned container accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Dear Heart questions

What zones can Hosta Dear Heart grow in?

Hosta Dear Heart 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 Dear Heart deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Hosta Dear Heart, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Hosta Dear Heart bloom?

Hosta Dear Heart typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Hosta Dear Heart need full sun?

Hosta Dear Heart does best in part shade.