
Guacamole Hosta
Hosta ventricosa 'Guacamole'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
40 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
East Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
The Story
Plant Bio
Hosta 'Guacamole' is known for its striking variegated leaves that are bright yellow with green margins. It typically forms a large, lush mound, making it a popular choice for shaded garden areas. This cultivar has unique leaves that resemble the fruit of a guacamole avocado and is resistant to slugs, making it more manageable in garden settings.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a shaded location with well-draining soil to plant Guacamole.
- Tuck seedlings or divisions into prepared soil, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
- Mulch around the plant with organic material to retain moisture.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Mist foliage during hot, dry periods to keep leaves healthy.
Pro Tip
Plant in rich, organic soil and keep roots consistently moist for best growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Remove dead or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid direct sunlight that can scorch leaves ☀️❌
- Don't let soil dry out completely between watering
- Refrain from over-fertilizing which can cause leaf burn
- Don't plant in poorly drained soil to prevent root rot
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Guacamole Hosta questions
What zones can Guacamole Hosta grow in?
Guacamole 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 Guacamole Hosta deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Guacamole Hosta, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Guacamole Hosta bloom?
Guacamole 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 Guacamole Hosta need full sun?
Guacamole Hosta does best in part shade.
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