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

Elephant Burgers

Hosta x hybrida 'Elephant Burgers'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Elephant Burgers' is a perennial shade-loving plant known for its large, broad, and textured foliage with striking variegation, producing bell-shaped lavender flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its exceptionally large, ruffled leaves with creamy-yellow margins, creating a bold visual statement in shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush greenery and variegated foliage to shaded areas, providing visual interest year-round.

Resistant to deer and rabbits, requiring minimal pest control.

Supports local pollinators by attracting beneficial insects.

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

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist, humid conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shady spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck seedlings or divisions into prepared soil, spacing 12 inches apart.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Mist foliage during dry periods to keep leaves healthy.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays consistently moist for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Mulch to conserve moisture and prevent weeds

Don't

Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause floppy leaves ❌
Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Never allow soil to dry out completely

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

Shaded woodland gardenPlant border with variegated foliageCool, shady ground cover

Companion Plants

AstilbeFerns Hosta Heuchera Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elephant Burgers questions

What zones can Elephant Burgers grow in?

Elephant Burgers 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 Elephant Burgers deer resistant?

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

When does Elephant Burgers bloom?

Elephant Burgers 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 Elephant Burgers need full sun?

Elephant Burgers does best in part shade.