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

Heart and Soul Hostas

Hosta x hybrida 'Heart and Soul'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Heart and Soul' is a deciduous perennial known for its lush, heart-shaped variegated leaves with a striking white margin and lavender flowers that emerge in summer.

This cultivar is particularly admired for its vibrant, contrasting foliage and reliable, showy floral display, making it a popular choice for shaded garden borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Vivid foliage and elegant form enhance shaded garden beds.

Groundcover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators.

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

16 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist, humid conditions

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 rich, well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or divide clumps in early spring or fall.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for vibrant foliage and prolonged growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil moist.
Divide every 3-4 years to prevent overcrowding.
Remove dead leaves to encourage healthy growth.
Apply mulch to conserve moisture ❌

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure which can scorch leaves.
Do not let soil dry out completely.
Avoid over-fertilizing which can lead to weak stems.

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 borderLively perennial bedTextured groundcover

Companion Plants

AstilbeFerns HeucheraJapanese Forest Grass Astilbe

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Heart and Soul Hostas questions

What zones can Heart and Soul Hostas grow in?

Heart and Soul 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 Heart and Soul Hostas deer resistant?

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

When does Heart and Soul Hostas bloom?

Heart and Soul 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 Heart and Soul Hostas need full sun?

Heart and Soul Hostas does best in part shade.