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

Clifford's Forest Fire

Hosta x hybrida 'Clifford's Forest Fire'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Clifford's Forest Fire' is a deciduous perennial forming a mound of lush, broad leaves, typically with variegation. It produces spikes of bell-shaped, lavender or white flowers in summer.

This cultivar is noted for its distinctive variegated foliage, providing strong color and texture contrast in shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid foliage adds striking contrast and color to shaded gardens, especially in early summer.

Provides ground cover and helps suppress weeds in shaded areas.

Supports beneficial insects and adds biodiversity to garden ecosystems.

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

Northeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck mature rhizomes into well-drained soil in early spring
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring for vigorous growth
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and control weeds
Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates

Pro Tip

Use rich, well-drained soil and keep soil consistently moist for best foliage color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture
Divide every 3–4 years for vigorous growth
Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not expose to full sun in hot climates
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall
Don't forget to remove dead or damaged leaves

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
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 variegated foliageUnderstory planting in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas AstilbeJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Clifford's Forest Fire questions

What zones can Clifford's Forest Fire grow in?

Clifford's Forest Fire 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 Clifford's Forest Fire deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Clifford's Forest Fire, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Clifford's Forest Fire bloom?

Clifford's Forest Fire typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Clifford's Forest Fire need full sun?

Clifford's Forest Fire does best in part shade.