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 Red Dragon

Hosta x hybrida 'Red Dragon'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Red Dragon' is a deciduous perennial that forms a mound of wavy, lance-shaped, blue-green leaves. A key feature is its deep red petioles (leaf stalks), with the red color extending into the leaf base.

This cultivar is highly prized for its intensely colored red petioles which create a stunning contrast with the blue-green foliage. It produces scapes of lavender flowers in mid-summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid foliage provides year-round interest in shaded gardens.

Excellent groundcover for suppressing weeds under trees.

Supports pollinators attracted to its nectar and foliage.

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 moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

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

Tuck dormant roots into well-draining soil in spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.
Place in partial shade for best foliage color.
Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Divide in early spring or fall

Don't

Avoid overwatering ❌
Do not expose to full sun for prolonged periods
Avoid disturbing roots during active growth

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
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 border with vibrant foliageTextured groundcover in shady areasContrast plant in woodland garden

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Red Dragon questions

What zones can Hosta Red Dragon grow in?

Hosta Red Dragon 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 Red Dragon deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Red Dragon bloom?

Hosta Red Dragon 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 Hosta Red Dragon need full sun?

Hosta Red Dragon does best in part shade.