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

Sweet Susan Hostas

Hosta x hybrida 'Sweet Susan'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Sweet Susan' is a deciduous perennial forming a mound of heart-shaped, shiny, dark green leaves. In mid to late summer, it produces very fragrant, pale lavender, trumpet-shaped flowers on tall scapes.

This cultivar is particularly valued for its exceptionally fragrant flowers, which are a highlight of the summer shade garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush foliage and subtle flowers, enhancing shaded garden areas.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects with its foliage.

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

22 inches

Width

40 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Cultivated

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 roots 2 inches deep in shaded spot
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall
Remove spent leaves in late fall for tidy appearance
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, shaded areas for best growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds
Divide every few years to promote healthy growth

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Over-fertilize, as it can cause leggy growth
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings

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 border with lush green foliageSilver‑foliaged hedgeGroundcover under trees

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe Heuchera LigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sweet Susan Hostas questions

What zones can Sweet Susan Hostas grow in?

Sweet Susan Hostas 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 Sweet Susan Hostas deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Sweet Susan Hostas, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Sweet Susan Hostas bloom?

Sweet Susan Hostas 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 Sweet Susan Hostas need full sun?

Sweet Susan Hostas does best in part shade.