
Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginae
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moist, humid environments
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia and North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Hosta plantaginea is a perennial with large, heart-shaped leaves and produces trumpet-shaped flowers. Known for its fragrant flowers, which are unique among hostas.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a shaded spot with rich, well-drained soil.
- Tuck young plants into the ground in early spring or fall.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Mist leaves during dry periods to keep foliage healthy.
Pro Tip
Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch and promote lush foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
- Divide clumps every 3–4 years to maintain vigor
Don't
- Don't expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves ❌
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause weak growth
- Never let soil dry out completely during hot months
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Plantain Lily questions
What zones can Plantain Lily grow in?
Plantain Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Plantain Lily deer resistant?
Yes — Plantain Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Plantain Lily bloom?
Plantain Lily 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 Plantain Lily need full sun?
Plantain Lily does best in part shade.
More Hosta to compare

Blue Mouse Ears Hosta
Hosta cordifolia 'Blue Mouse Ears'

Patriot Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginea 'Patriot'

June Hosta
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
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Plantain Lily 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.
