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

Sutter's Mill Hostas

Hosta x hybrida 'Sutter's Mill'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Sutter's Mill' is a perennial shade-loving plant known for its broad, variegated leaves with creamy-yellow centers and green margins, producing lavender flowers in summer.

This cultivar is prized for its striking foliage contrast and its vigorous growth, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden borders and containers.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush foliage and elegant lavender flowers, enhancing shaded garden spaces.

Resistant to deer and pests, requiring minimal upkeep.

Supports local pollinators with nectar during bloom.

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

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Many years with proper care

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2-3 inches deep in prepared soil.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
Remove dead leaves in early spring for fresh growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded areas with rich, well-draining soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Apply mulch to retain moisture and keep roots cool
Divide every few years to maintain vigor

Don't

Avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not overwater, as soggy soil can cause rot
Avoid fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth

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 textured foliageCool, calming groundcoverWoodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Sutter's Mill Hostas questions

What zones can Sutter's Mill Hostas grow in?

Sutter's Mill Hostas 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 Sutter's Mill Hostas deer resistant?

Yes — Sutter's Mill Hostas is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Sutter's Mill Hostas bloom?

Sutter's Mill 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 Sutter's Mill Hostas need full sun?

Sutter's Mill Hostas does best in part shade.