The Story
Plant Bio
Hosta 'Citation' is a perennial shade-loving plant characterized by its broad, heart-shaped green leaves with wide, creamy-white margins. It produces tall, graceful flower spikes bearing lavender bell-shaped flowers.
This cultivar is distinguished by its striking variegation and compact growth habit, making it a popular choice for shaded garden borders and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Hybrid of Asian species
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
- Select a shaded spot with rich, well-draining soil.
- Tuck young plants into the soil, ensuring roots are covered.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to promote growth.
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains consistently moist for vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to direct, harsh sunlight
- Avoid neglecting fertilization during active growth
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Hosta Citation questions
What zones can Hosta Citation grow in?
Hosta Citation 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 Citation deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Hosta Citation, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Hosta Citation bloom?
Hosta Citation 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 Citation need full sun?
Hosta Citation does best in part shade.
More Hosta to compare

Blue Mouse Ears Hosta
Hosta cordifolia 'Blue Mouse Ears'

Patriot Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginea 'Patriot'

June Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'June'

Fire Island Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'Fire Island'

Empress Wu Hosta
Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu'

Hosta Goldrush
Hosta x hybrida 'Goldrush'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Hosta Citation with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.











































































































































































































































































































