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

Key West Hosta

Hosta x hybrida 'Key West'

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, impressive hosta forming a mound of huge, heart-shaped, corrugated leaves. Foliage emerges chartreuse and brightens to brilliant gold in summer, especially with some morning sun.

Valued for its giant, sun-tolerant golden leaves that create a dramatic focal point in the shade garden. Produces pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers on tall scapes in summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, textured foliage with variegation, perfect for shaded areas.

Suppresses weeds and prevents soil erosion in shaded beds.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and supports biodiversity.

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

70 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers humid environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Northeast 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

Choose a shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck young plants into the ground in early spring.
Mist cuttings or water regularly during dry spells.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.
Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Pro Tip

Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
Divide in early spring or fall to rejuvenate

Don't

Avoid direct sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not over-fertilize to prevent leaf burn
Avoid dry, compacted soil that impedes growth

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 woodland borderSilver-foliaged hedgeVintage-style garden bed

Companion Plants

Fern Astilbe HeucheraJapanese Forest Grass Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Key West Hosta questions

What zones can Key West Hosta grow in?

Key West Hosta is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Key West Hosta deer resistant?

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

When does Key West Hosta bloom?

Key West Hosta 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 Key West Hosta need full sun?

Key West Hosta does best in part shade.