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

Hosta Miss Ruby

Hosta x hybrida 'Miss Ruby'

The Story

Plant Bio

A small, mound-forming deciduous perennial with shiny, heart-shaped, medium green leaves held on striking, deep ruby-red petioles. In mid-summer, it produces scapes of lavender, bell-shaped flowers.

This cultivar is prized for its intensely colored, ruby-red petioles (leaf stalks), which extend into the base of the leaf blade, providing a dramatic contrast with the green foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

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

Prefers shaded spots, reducing the need for sun protection.

Supports pollinators like insects and provides cover for small wildlife.

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

Medium

Humidity

Prefers humid conditions

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Cultivar

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 seeds or divisions into well-prepared soil in early spring
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain vigor

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, moist soil for best growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature
Divide every 3-4 years for healthy growth
Fertilize in spring with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Skip dividing which can lead to overcrowding

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 woodland borderLavender-scented garden bed

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbes Heucheras Hostas with contrasting foliage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Miss Ruby questions

What zones can Hosta Miss Ruby grow in?

Hosta Miss Ruby 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 Hosta Miss Ruby deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Miss Ruby bloom?

Hosta Miss Ruby 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 Hosta Miss Ruby need full sun?

Hosta Miss Ruby does best in part shade.