Hosta x hybrida 'American King of the Woods'

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

American King of the Woods Hosta

Hosta x hybrida 'American King of the Woods'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'American King of the Woods' is a deciduous perennial known for its broad, lush foliage and tall flower stalks bearing bell-shaped, lavender flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its very large, thick, heavily corrugated, dark green leaves, forming a massive mound. It is a sport of Hosta 'King of the Woods'.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage that enhances shaded garden areas.

Low-maintenance and deer-resistant, ideal for shaded borders.

Supports local pollinators and adds biodiversity to shade gardens.

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

30 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes into well-drained, rich soil in partial shade.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Remove dead foliage in late fall to promote healthy growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil stays consistently moist for best foliage display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture
Divide every 3-4 years to rejuvenate the plant

Don't

Avoid overwatering leading to root rot ❌
Do not place in full sun, which can scorch leaves
Avoid heavy, compacted clay soils without amendment

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 borderTextured shade garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe Heuchera Hosta ventricosaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

American King of the Woods Hosta questions

What zones can American King of the Woods Hosta grow in?

American King of the Woods Hosta 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 American King of the Woods Hosta deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse American King of the Woods Hosta, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does American King of the Woods Hosta bloom?

American King of the Woods Hosta typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does American King of the Woods Hosta need full sun?

American King of the Woods Hosta does best in part shade.