Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

298 other cultivars

perennial

Hosta Hotshot

Hosta x hybrida 'Hotshot'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Hotshot' is a compact, mound-forming perennial with heart-shaped, bright chartreuse to yellow leaves. Spikes of lavender, bell-shaped flowers appear in mid-summer.

This cultivar is prized for its small size and brilliant yellow foliage that holds its color well, making it an excellent choice for brightening up shady spots, borders, and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage that enhances shaded garden areas.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Supports beneficial 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

7 inches

Width

14 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern Asia

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 dormant roots into well-draining soil
Water thoroughly after planting
Place in partial shade for best foliage color
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Ensure roots are moist before planting for quick establishment

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture
Divide every few years to rejuvenate
Fertilize early spring for lush growth

Don't

Avoid full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t overwater, risk root rot
Skip dividing, can lead to overcrowding
Don’t neglect mulching

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded borderWoodland garden edgeDappled shade accent

Companion Plants

Fern Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Hotshot questions

What zones can Hosta Hotshot grow in?

Hosta Hotshot is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hosta Hotshot deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Hotshot bloom?

Hosta Hotshot 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 Hotshot need full sun?

Hosta Hotshot does best in part shade.