Plant guide

Hosta.

Hosta L.

Pronounced HOS-tuh

Hostas are beloved shade-loving perennials known for their lush foliage, which comes in a remarkable variety of colors, shapes, and textures. They are low-maintenance plants that add significant visual interest to shady gardens, borders, and containers. Hostas typically produce spikes of bell-shaped or trumpet-shaped flowers in the summer.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Perennial
Light: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Indoor light: medium
Water: Every 3 to 7 days
Mature size: Varies greatly by cultivar; typically 0.5-1m in height and spread.
Growth rate: medium
Hardiness: USDA 3 to 9
Bloom time: Summer

Care

Hostas thrive in partial to full shade and prefer moist, well-draining soil. They benefit from consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Watch for slug and snail damage, which is common.

Watering: Water regularly, keeping soil consistently moist but not soggy; reduce watering in cooler months.
Feeding: Fertilize in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer; excessive nitrogen can lead to scorch.
Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed; cut back spent flower stalks after blooming.
Repotting: Repot when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 1-3 years.
Soil: Rich, moist, well-draining loam
Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
Temperature: -34.4 to 32.2°C
Humidity: 50 to 70%

Safety

Pets: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Large basal rosette of leaves
Leaves vary greatly in size and color
Heart-shaped or lance-shaped leaves
Spikes of bell-shaped flowers
Grows from thick rhizomes
Prefers shade

Height: 0.15 to 1m
Spread: 0.2 to 1.2m
Leaves: Green, Blue-green, Yellow, Variegated, deciduous
Flowers: White, Lavender, Purple, Pale blue, 2.5 to 5cm

Growing it

Propagation: Division, Seed
When to plant: Spring, Autumn

Is your hosta looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.