The Story
Plant Bio
Hosta x hybrida 'Russell Lee' is a deciduous perennial known for its lush, broad, variegated foliage with creamy yellow centers bordered by darker green margins. It produces tall, graceful flower spikes with lavender to pale purple flowers in summer.
This cultivar is particularly valued for its striking variegation, which provides visual interest throughout the growing season and makes it a popular choice for shaded garden borders and containers.
Uses & Benefits:
Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
18 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Many years with proper care
Native To
Cultivated hybrid from East Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shady spot with well-drained soil.
- Tuck roots into soil, keeping crown at soil level.
- Water thoroughly after planting, keep moist during first season.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring for best growth.
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade for vibrant foliage and longevity.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
- Divide in early spring to rejuvenate
Don't
- Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves ❌
- Do not over-fertilize to prevent leaf burn
- Skip heavy pruning in late fall
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Hosta Russell Lee questions
What zones can Hosta Russell Lee grow in?
Hosta Russell Lee 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 Russell Lee deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Hosta Russell Lee, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Hosta Russell Lee bloom?
Hosta Russell Lee typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Hosta Russell Lee need full sun?
Hosta Russell Lee does best in part shade.
More Hosta to compare

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Hosta cordifolia 'Blue Mouse Ears'

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Hosta plantaginea 'Patriot'

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Hosta fortunei 'June'

Fire Island Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'Fire Island'

Empress Wu Hosta
Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu'

Hosta Goldrush
Hosta x hybrida 'Goldrush'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Hosta Russell Lee with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.










































































































































































































































































































