Log in

Hosta /ˈhoʊstə/

Common name: Hosta · Plantain lily

Hosta is a genus of shade-loving herbaceous perennials native to northeast Asia, especially Japan, China, and Korea. Hostas are grown primarily for their lush foliage, which ranges from blue-green to gold and often features striking variegation. They form dense clumps and produce spikes of lavender or white flowers in summer.

Fun facts

  • There are thousands of registered hosta cultivars, from tiny miniatures to giants over a meter tall.
  • Young hosta shoots (sansai) are eaten as a spring vegetable in Japan.
  • Blue-leaved hostas get their color from a waxy coating that fades in hot sun.
  • Slugs and snails are the hosta's most notorious pests.

Care summary

Sun Partial to full shade
Water Regular; keep soil consistently moist
Soil Rich, moist, well-drained
Hardiness Zones 3–9
Mature height 0.15–1.2 m (0.5–4 ft) depending on variety
Pet safe Toxic to cats and dogs

Common problems

    • Apply iron phosphate slug pellets around plants
    • Remove debris and hiding places nearby
    • Water in the morning, not evening
    • Move plants to a shadier spot
    • Keep soil evenly moist in summer
    • Improve soil drainage before replanting
    • Avoid planting the crown too deep
    • Install fencing or apply repellents
    • Protect young plants with mesh covers