Species

44 other cultivars

perennial

Empress Wu Hosta

Q: What zones can Empress Wu Hosta grow in?

Empress Wu 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.

Q: Is Empress Wu Hosta deer resistant?

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

Q: When does Empress Wu Hosta bloom?

Empress Wu Hosta typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Q: Does Empress Wu Hosta need full sun?

Empress Wu Hosta does best in part shade.

Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu'

$14.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Large, glossy leaves and tall flower spikes.

One of the largest hostas, named after Empress Wu Zetian.

Uses & Benefits:

Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu' offers stunning, fragrant white flowers and lush foliage, perfect for shaded gardens.

Provides ground cover and reduces soil erosion in shady areas.

Supports pollinators attracted to its fragrant blooms.

SpeciesHosta plantagineaFragrant Plantain Lily

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48"

Width

60"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

New Garden Plants

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$14.95

NH Hostas

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotPlugs

In Stock$15.00

Rare Roots

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$18.95

Great Garden Plants

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays

In Stock$18.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck healthy rhizomes into well-draining, rich soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Mist foliage regularly during growing season for lush leaves.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall for best growth.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enhance soil fertility and promote vigorous growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Provide dappled shade in hot climates for optimal health
Mulch annually to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t expose rhizomes to direct, hot sun which can scorch leaves
Refrain from disturbing the roots during the growing season
Don’t forget to remove dead or damaged leaves for plant health

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

Shady woodland border with lush, variegated foliageElegant groundcover beneath trees or shrubsSoftening hardscape edges in shaded courtyards

Companion Plants

AstilbeFerns Heuchera LigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Empress Wu Hosta questions

What zones can Empress Wu Hosta grow in?

Empress Wu 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 Empress Wu Hosta deer resistant?

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

When does Empress Wu Hosta bloom?

Empress Wu Hosta typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Empress Wu Hosta need full sun?

Empress Wu Hosta does best in part shade.