Items 1 to 30 of 72 total
Items 1 to 30 of 72 total
Hostas
Uses:
- Shade Gardens
- Woodland Areas
- Containers & Planters
Features:
- Unique Foliage
- Low Maintenance
- Summer Flowers
Sunlight:
- Partial Shade to Full Shade
- North Side of Homes
- Under 4 Hours of Direct Sunlight
Growing Zones:
- 3-9
- What is My Zone?
Hostas are popular plants for gardeners that grow in shady areas. The unique foliage provides interest from spring until winter. Grow these on the north side of homes or under trees.
Why Buy Hostas Online
Hosta is a genus of plants widely grown by gardeners as fantastic shade tolerant plants with excellent foliage and tiny purple flowers. These plants are native to China, Japan, Korea, and Russia. Hostas are low maintenance perennial plants that have large leaves that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Colors include blue-green, lime-green and dark-green, as well as variegated versions. Hostas can grow anywhere from 6 inches tall all the way up to 4 feet tall!
Excellent in shade gardens
Low maintenance
Beautiful foliage in different colors
6 inches to 4 feet tall
Growing zones 3 to 9
About Hostas
Genus
Species
Family
Hosta
70+
Asparagaceae
Common Names:
Plantain Lily, Funkia, Giboshi
Native To:
Asia (Japan, Korea, and China)
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Herbaceous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
3 - 9
Flower Color:
White, Purple, Lavender, Pink
Flower Bloom Time:
Summer
Growth Habit:
Clumping, Spreading
Attracts:
Bees, Hummingbirds
Tolerates:
Shade, Drought (once established)
Resists:
Slugs, Snails
How To Use Hostas In The Garden
Hostas are celebrated for their striking foliage, which comes in an array of shapes, sizes, and colors. From deep green to blue-gray and variegated patterns, their leaves add depth and texture to any planting scheme. These shade-loving perennials are particularly valued for their hardiness and ability to thrive in low-light conditions, making them a favorite for areas where other plants might struggle. Their rich foliage also creates a cooling effect, softening the look of hardscapes and borders.
Often homeowners will grow these plants underneath trees, on the north side of their house, or next to other structures that provide shade. These plants are perfect for edging pathways, creating soft borders, or anchoring shade gardens with their bold presence. Hostas can be grouped to form lush ground cover or combined with contrasting plants like ferns and astilbes for a layered effect. Smaller varieties suit container gardening, while larger ones command attention in mixed beds.
Hostas Care
Hostas prefer well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. When planting, choose a location with partial to full shade, as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support healthy growth throughout the season.
Pruning hostas involves removing spent flower stalks and damaged leaves to maintain their appearance and promote new growth. During winter, apply mulch to protect roots from freezing temperatures and prevent soil heaving. When growing in containers, select a pot with drainage holes and use a high-quality potting mix. Keep potted hostas in a shaded area and water as needed to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot weather.
Learn More About Hostas
Are Hostas Edible?
Hostas, native to China, Korea, and Japan, are not only popular shade plants but also entirely edible. Belonging to the Asparagaceae family, they are related to yucca, agave, and asparagus. Early spring shoots, often compared to asparagus in taste, are the most commonly consumed part. These young, tender shoots can be harvested by cutting them at ground level with disinfected garden shears. It's advisable to collect them in the morning when they're more hydrated.
Hosta leaves can serve as a substitute for spinach or lettuce in various dishes. Younger leaves are preferred due to their tenderness and milder flavor. They can be incorporated into salads, wraps, or stir-fry recipes. Additionally, hosta flowers and buds are edible, though they have a bland taste and are often used as garnishes. It's important to note that while hostas are safe for human consumption, they are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, potentially causing vomiting, diarrhea, or depression if ingested.
Learn More About Hostas
Hosta Companion Plants
Plants that go well with hostas are shade loving annuals, perennials and shrubs. Some of our favorite plants to grow with hostas are coral bells, astilbe, ferns, geraniums, and lenten roses.
