Hosta plantaginae
perennial

Plantain Lily

Hosta plantaginae

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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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:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesHostas offer lush, textured foliage that enhances shaded garden areas and adds visual interest year-round.
Practical UsesThey help suppress weeds in shaded beds and require minimal maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsHostas attract beneficial insects and provide habitat for pollinators in shade gardens.

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

  1. Select a shaded spot with rich, well-drained soil.
  2. Tuck young plants into the ground in early spring or fall.
  3. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
  4. Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland garden borderSilver-foliaged groundcover beneath treesTextural contrast in shade gardens

Companion Plants

Astilbe Ferns Heuchera Ligularia Japanese painted fern

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.

Keep exploring

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.

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