Hosta

Flower · cool season · also called plantain lily

A clump of blue-green hosta leaves
Photo: dinomariobob, iNaturalist (CC0)

When to plant

  • Set out plants about around your average last spring frost.
  • Ready to harvest about 70 days after planting.

The classic shade perennial, grown for its leaves. Slugs and deer love it. Divide clumps in spring every few years.

Frost dates depend on where you live. Enter your ZIP code to get exact dates.

Growing basics

Not edible.

Harmful to pets. Toxic to cats and dogs (vomiting, diarrhea).

Sun
Shade
Spacing
18–30 in
Soil temperature
At least 50°F
Time to harvest
About 70 days
Containers
At least 3 gallons
Plant family
Other

Pests and problems

Grow it well

Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.