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

'Heartache' Hosta

Hosta x hybrida 'Heartache'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Heartache' is a large hosta featuring immense, heart-shaped, chartreuse to golden-yellow leaves. It forms a substantial mound and produces pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers on tall scapes in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its massive, golden, heart-shaped leaves and robust, vase-shaped habit. It is a sport of the famous 'Sum and Substance'.

Uses & Benefits:

Hostas add lush foliage and subtle blooms, enhancing shaded garden areas.

They help suppress weeds and retain soil moisture in shaded beds.

Provide habitat and nectar for beneficial insects.

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

32 inches

Width

66 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Many years

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

Tuck hosta rhizomes 2 inches deep in shaded areas.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist foliage during dry spells for healthy growth.
Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Remove dead leaves in late fall to tidy the plant.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, well-drained soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture
Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing which can cause weak stems

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush foliageGroundcover in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

ferns astilbe heucherasolomon's seal bleeding heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

'Heartache' Hosta questions

What zones can 'Heartache' Hosta grow in?

'Heartache' 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 'Heartache' Hosta deer resistant?

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

When does 'Heartache' Hosta bloom?

'Heartache' 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 'Heartache' Hosta need full sun?

'Heartache' Hosta does best in part shade.