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 Dick Ward

Hosta x hybrida 'Dick Ward'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Dick Ward' is a perennial groundcover known for its lush, broad, corrugated leaves with a chartreuse to yellow center and wide, irregular blue-green margins. It produces scapes of pale lavender flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking variegation and vigorous growth, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden areas and container planting.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage that brightens shaded areas.

Suppresses weeds with dense growth and requires minimal care.

Supports pollinators and benefits woodland ecosystems.

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

16 inches

Width

34 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Regular moisture, avoid drying out

Humidity

Prefers moist, humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

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 young plants into a shaded spot in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Remove dead foliage in late fall or early spring.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Divide in early spring or fall for vigorous growth

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause floppy leaves

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

Shaded border with lush foliageGroundcover in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraBleeding Heart Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Dick Ward questions

What zones can Hosta Dick Ward grow in?

Hosta Dick Ward 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 Dick Ward deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Dick Ward bloom?

Hosta Dick Ward 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 Dick Ward need full sun?

Hosta Dick Ward does best in part shade.