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 Paintbrush

Hosta x hybrida 'Paintbrush'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Paintbrush' is a perennial herbaceous plant distinguished by its broad, lush foliage and tall flower spikes bearing bell-shaped, lavender to purple flowers. It thrives in shaded garden environments.

This cultivar is notable for its unique spring foliage where the leaf center emerges chartreuse-yellow and is 'painted' on, surrounded by a dark green margin. The light center color fades to green by mid-summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Hosta Paintbrush offers lush, textured foliage that provides visual interest year-round, especially in shaded gardens.

Its ability to thrive in low-light and drought conditions makes it a reliable groundcover or border plant.

Provides habitat and nectar for beneficial insects, contributing to garden biodiversity.

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

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

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

Select a shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck young plants into the soil, ensuring roots are covered.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain health.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for best foliage and flower display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch annually to conserve moisture
Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding
Fertilize early spring for vigorous growth

Don't

Avoid direct, intense sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing which can cause floppy leaves

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 foliageTextural groundcover in woodland gardenCool-toned container planting

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese Forest Grass Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Paintbrush questions

What zones can Hosta Paintbrush grow in?

Hosta Paintbrush 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 Paintbrush deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Paintbrush bloom?

Hosta Paintbrush 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 Hosta Paintbrush need full sun?

Hosta Paintbrush does best in part shade.