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 Aardvark

Hosta x hybrida 'Aardvark'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Aardvark' is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring broad, ovate leaves with a striking yellow margin and a lush green center, complemented by bell-shaped lavender flowers on tall scapes.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant variegation, making it an attractive focal point in shaded garden borders and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Hosta Aardvark offers lush foliage in shaded gardens, adding texture and color with minimal effort.

Provides ground cover, suppresses weeds, and requires low maintenance.

Supports pollinators and creates habitat in shaded garden areas.

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 environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-drained soil.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Mist foliage during dry spells for best growth.
Place in partial shade for vibrant leaf color.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage and bloom performance.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry periods 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid direct full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing, which can cause weak growth

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 under treesCool-toned garden accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe Heuchera LigulariaJapanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Aardvark questions

What zones can Hosta Aardvark grow in?

Hosta Aardvark 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 Aardvark deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Aardvark bloom?

Hosta Aardvark 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 Aardvark need full sun?

Hosta Aardvark does best in part shade.