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 Florence Nightingale

Hosta x hybrida 'Florence Nightingale'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Florence Nightingale' is a deciduous perennial forming a large mound of heart-shaped, slightly wavy, chartreuse to light green leaves. It produces tall scapes of pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers in mid-summer.

This cultivar is prized for its bright, solid-colored foliage that illuminates shady garden areas and its vigorous growth habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, variegated foliage that brightens shaded gardens.

Easily propagated and low-maintenance, suitable for shaded borders.

Supports local pollinators with its subtle blooms and foliage.

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

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late summer

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck young plants into shaded soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for best growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor.
Mist foliage during hot, dry periods to prevent stress.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining, shaded areas for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every few years to promote healthy growth
Fertilize in early spring for vibrant foliage

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
Don’t ignore pests like slugs and snails

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
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with variegated foliageCool-toned groundcover in shady spots

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe Heuchera LigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Florence Nightingale questions

What zones can Hosta Florence Nightingale grow in?

Hosta Florence Nightingale 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 Florence Nightingale deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Florence Nightingale bloom?

Hosta Florence Nightingale typically blooms in late 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 Florence Nightingale need full sun?

Hosta Florence Nightingale does best in part shade.