Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

298 other cultivars

perennial

Hosta Red October

Hosta x hybrida 'Red October'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Red October' is a deciduous perennial known for its broad, lush foliage with striking red-tinted leaves that mature to deep green, complemented by tall, bell-shaped lavender flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant red leaf edges and the ability to maintain its colorful foliage throughout the growing season, adding dramatic contrast to shaded garden beds.

Uses & Benefits:

Vibrant foliage and lush texture make it a focal point in shaded gardens.

Provides ground cover that suppresses weeds in shaded areas.

Supports pollinators with subtle late-summer blooms.

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

Medium

Humidity

Preferably moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Cultivated hybrid

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 seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly to establish roots, keeping soil moist.
Apply mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to maintain vigor.
Monitor soil moisture and water during dry spells.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage color and health.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Divide every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Don't

Avoid full sun which can scorch leaves.
Don’t let soil dry out completely.
Avoid over-fertilizing which can lead to weak growth.
Don’t ignore pest signs like slugs or snails.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
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 foliagePlanting along shaded pathways

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Hosta ventricosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Red October questions

What zones can Hosta Red October grow in?

Hosta Red October 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 October deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Red October bloom?

Hosta Red October 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 October need full sun?

Hosta Red October does best in part shade.