35+ Different Types Of Hostas With Pictures
Hostas, with their vibrant, variegated foliage in shades of blue, green, and yellow, are a popular choice for gardeners seeking shade-loving plants. Easy to propagate and maintain, these versatile plants belong to the Hosta genus, which encompasses 70 species, hundreds of hybrids, and cultivars. If you’re new to hostas or looking to add some variety to your landscape, it’s worth getting familiar with the different types that can complement your space.
From ‘Hosta Whirlwind’ to ‘Hosta Golden Tiara’, there are over 35 distinct varieties to choose from, each boasting unique characteristics and color combinations. Whether you’re seeking low-maintenance flowers or simply looking for a stylish addition to your garden, hostas have something to offer. With their ability to thrive in shade and require minimal upkeep, it’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in many gardens.
Hosta identification
While hostas boast a stunning array of varieties and cultivars, pinpointing their identity can be a daunting task. However, despite this diversity, all hosta plant species share distinct characteristics that can aid in identification. For instance, understanding these common traits – whether it’s the shape and size of their leaves or the color and texture of their blooms – is crucial for accurately distinguishing one hosta from another.
Leaves
Hosta plants showcase a remarkable diversity in their leaf bases, featuring four distinct shapes. While many hostas exhibit heart-shaped leaves reminiscent of lily pads, others display a unique curvature with converging sides, truncate, or wedge-like formations. A defining characteristic of all hostas is the presence of colored margins, accompanied by smooth texture and visible veining.
Additionally, these leaves often feature a puckered surface that can range from waxy to matte, with a glossy appearance being the most common.
Flowers
Hostas are characterized by their trumpet-shaped or bell-shaped flowers that radiate from six lobes. The floral palette boasts a range of hues, including white, light purple, and dark purple. This color display typically unfurls during the summer season. One notable aspect of hostas is the variation in height and diameter among species and cultivars.
For those seeking to pinpoint a specific hosta variety, consulting plant identification applications or reaching out to reputable organizations like the American Hosta Society or the American Hosta Growers Association can provide valuable insights.
35 types of hostas
Among the numerous hosta species and cultivars, we’ve curated a list of 33 of the most sought-after and renowned types. This comprehensive selection provides a solid foundation for understanding the characteristics and attributes of these popular hostas, allowing you to make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs.
Hosta whirlwind
This beloved hosta variety is a staple of shady gardens everywhere, boasting a dynamic display of foliage that evolves throughout the growing season. At first glance, its heart-shaped leaves appear lime-green with creamy white streaks radiating from the center and dark green edges. As summer wears on, these central streaks gradually shift to a deep green hue. The plant’s upright growth habit gives it a statuesque appearance, reaching up to 5 feet in height.
Additionally, this hosta produces showy, trumpet-shaped blooms in a lovely lilac shade that complement its foliage perfectly.
Hosta Komodo Dragon
This stunning hostas variety boasts an impressive size, featuring cascading leaves with a unique blend of blue-green hues and creamy white edges. The foliage is characterized by prominent, deep veins that set it apart from others. At maturity, the plants typically reach 2-3 feet in height and spread out to about 2 feet wide. As the summer months arrive, the hostas are treated to a delightful display of purplish-white flowers.
However, this same variety also requires close attention due to its susceptibility to pesky slugs and insects. As it establishes its roots, it’s crucial to keep a watchful eye out for any potential threats.
Hosta Guacamole
What sets this hosta apart is its unique combination of sweet-scented blooms and striking foliage. The leaves are broad and oval-shaped, boasting a bold yellow-green hue with golden tinges running along the center. One of its most distinctive features is the way the foliage grows in mounds, overlapping each other for a lush, textured appearance. As the summer months arrive, it produces white, fragrant flowers that add an extra layer of charm to this already impressive plant.
This hosta is versatile enough to thrive either as a garden border or as a container plant indoors.
Hosta August Moon
The August Moon hosta boasts unique, asymmetrical leaf growth patterns that form mounds reaching up to 3 feet tall. While typically a lovely yellow-green hue, the leaves take on a vibrant yellow tone when exposed to direct sunlight. This striking coloration is thought to be inspired by the flower’s bright yellow blooms, which appear in bell-shaped clusters during the summer months.
Hosta Blue Angel
The most striking feature of this hosta variety is its enormous, broad leaves that have a unique fan-like shape with overlapping edges reminiscent of bird wings. The leaves themselves are a stunning blue-green hue, boasting a thick, puckered texture and an almost matte finish. While it can thrive in partial sun, this hosta is also surprisingly adaptable to dry soils.
As the summer months arrive, it produces beautiful funnel-shaped flowers, adding another layer of charm to its already impressive appearance.
Hosta Frances Williams
This stunning hosta boasts a unique combination of blue-green hues and chartreuse edges, giving it an air of elegance and refinement. The leaves themselves are remarkably robust, retaining their thickness year-round due to their distinctive puckered texture. This variety reaches approximately 1.5 feet in height and spreads around 4 feet wide. As the summer months arrive, delicate white flowers emerge, adding a touch of whimsy to its overall aesthetic.
Striptease Hosta
Hosta ‘Tricolor’ is a renowned variety for its striking colors. Characterized by a green base, a vibrant yellow stripe running along the center, and narrow white edges, this tricolor hosta boasts a compact size, reaching 1-2 inches in height and 3 inches in width. The real showstopper, however, is its stunning display of light purple flowers from July to August.
Great Expectations Hosta
A standout variety of hostas, this one boasts a broad foliage that measures 4 inches wide and 2 inches tall. The leaves are adorned with creamy yellow stripes radiating from the center during summer, transforming into a soft white or cream hue by fall. The edges are a vibrant blue-green. To maintain these striking stripes, this particular hosta requires bright, indirect light to thrive.
Sagae Hosta
Imagine your garden transformed by this striking ornamental grass, boasting a frosted appearance, icy blue-green leaves, and sun-kissed golden edges. As the summer arrives, it bursts into vibrant lilac-colored blooms. Measuring 1-3 inches in height and 5 inches in width, its upright growth habit makes it perfect for layering with smaller hostas to create a lush ground cover.
Paradigm Hosta
For those seeking a more sun-friendly and luminous hosta, this variety shines bright. Its unique combination of golden yellow and blue-green hues creates an eye-catching display. As the summer months unfold, the colors deepen in intensity, with the golden yellow radiating a warm glow when bathed in light. Standing tall at 4 feet, this hosta boasts broad foliage that measures a generous 5 feet wide. Its purple flowers bloom in clusters, adding a pop of color to its already striking appearance.
Formal Attire hosta
For those seeking an air of regality for their thick ground cover, the formal attire hosta is an excellent option. Measuring 3ft in both height and width, this impressive hosta boasts a stunning blue-green hue, complemented by creamy white edges that add a touch of elegance. As summer unfolds, the leaves transform into a deep green, while the edges take on a warm yellow tone. Adding to its majesty is the light purple coloring that adorns the plant throughout the season.
Silver Threads and Golden Needles hosta
Looking for a compact yet eye-catching hosta? This variety is an excellent choice. Its golden yellow leaves feature unique silver and green blotches that create visual interest. What’s truly fascinating is how each leaf develops a distinct characteristic based on its level of sun exposure. Whether used as a container or border plant, this hosta thrives. Plus, it produces delicate light purple flowers throughout the summer months.
Daybreak hosta
This stunning hosta variety boasts leaves with a striking golden color that deepens into a vibrant chartreuse when kissed by sunlight. The unique puckered texture adds to its visual appeal, while its impressive heat tolerance and moderate resistance to slugs make it an attractive choice for gardeners who struggle with these pesky pests. Reaching 2ft in height and spreading 3ft wide, this compact hosta is a great addition to any landscape.
As if the foliage weren’t enough, it also produces lovely lilac-colored flowers during the summer months, adding an extra layer of beauty to its overall appeal.
Blue mouse ears hosta
It’s no coincidence that this particular hosta bears the name ‘Honey’ – its diminutive nature is reflected in every aspect of its appearance. Measuring just 6 inches in height, its curled-edged foliage boasts a stunning blue-green hue. The symmetrical mounding habit of the leaves adds an extra layer of visual appeal, while its thick, waxy texture ensures they remain unscathed by pesky slugs.
But perhaps the most striking feature is the showy lavender flowers that bloom to impressive heights of around 12 inches – a true standout among its hosta counterparts.
Color festival hosta
A standout variety is the tricolor hosta, boasting a unique combination of lighter yellow-green leaves featuring vibrant yellow streaks scattered throughout, and deep green edges that provide visual interest. The varying degrees of these three colors on each leaf create an intriguing display when used as a container or border plant.
This particular hosta exhibits an attractive overlapping mound habit, reaching a maximum height of 16-18 inches and a width of 12-16 inches.
Curly fries hosta
Standing out from its hosta counterparts is this unique variety, characterized by elongated, narrow leaves that drape down and feature wavy edges. Its foliage often showcases a vibrant chartreuse hue. As the summer months arrive, delicate light purple blooms emerge, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to create a whimsical and enchanting garden or landscape.
First frost Halcyon hosta
This stunning plant boasts a unique feature – its leaves change color with the seasons. In the spring and summer, it dons a vibrant blue-green hue with golden yellow edges. As fall arrives, these borders morph into pure white, giving the appearance of being kissed by winter’s first frost. This adaptable beauty grows to be approximately 12-16 inches tall and spreads about 36 inches wide. When it blooms, a showy 28-inch stem emerges, adorned with rich purple flowers.
Furthermore, this resilient plant has natural defenses against insects and slugs, making it a low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Fragrant Bouquet hosta
While not the only hosta with fragrant blooms, ‘Fragrant Bouquet’ stands out for its exceptionally potent floral aroma. Its medium-sized leaves boast a striking apple green hue with crisp white edges, providing an attractive backdrop for the plant’s most notable feature: its powerful scent. This adaptable variety can thrive in partial morning sun, making it suitable for zones 4-11.
What’s more, ‘Fragrant Bouquet’ exhibits a remarkable growth rate, quickly reaching heights of 18-24 inches and spreading outwards to approximately 24 inches, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a fast-growing, fragrant addition to their landscaping.
Gold Standard hosta
Hostas with an air of majesty are a sight to behold, and this particular variety does not disappoint. Its leaves are a standout feature, boasting broad, oblong shapes that stretch up to 8 inches in length and 5 inches in width, with the edges slightly overlapping for added visual interest. The foliage itself is a vibrant chartreuse hue with subtle green undertones, which gradually shift towards golden yellow and cream-colored edges as summer arrives.
In mid-summer, this stunning display is accompanied by the emergence of purple flowers, adding an extra layer of beauty to its overall appearance. When fully grown, this hosta reaches heights of 12 to 28 inches, making it a versatile addition to any garden or landscape.
Golden Tiara hosta
This particular variety of hosta is distinguished by its diminutive, heart-shaped leaves that overlap to create a compact and charming appearance. It grows rapidly, reaching a modest height of 6-12 inches and spreading outwards to approximately 24-36 inches in diameter. One of the most striking features of this hosta is its vibrant purple blooms that burst forth during the summer months, occurring with remarkable frequency.
In contrast to other hostas whose flowers typically persist until early winter, this variety has a unique ability to rebloom at any time if the plant’s first bloom is properly deadheaded.
Hosta June
One of the most ubiquitous hostas, this variety often gets mistaken for pothos due to its similar color palette. However, it lacks the cascading feature of its Pothalesque counterpart, instead boasting a more dramatic appearance. The leaf variegation showcases vibrant lime green and golden streaks alongside a striking blue-green edge. When in bloom, it produces lovely lavender-hued flowers during the summer months.
Reaching 6-10 inches in height and spreading to 16-20 inches across, this hosta is an eye-catching addition to any garden or indoor space.
Hosta Patriot
Hostas are renowned for their striking foliage, and this particular variety is no exception. The glossy leaves have a unique heart-shaped appearance, boasting prominent white margins that reach up to the stalk. The plants grow in an upright manner, with overlapping leaves that earn it its name. A bonus feature is the display of vibrant purple flowers, which adds to the plant’s visual appeal.
With a mature height of 12-22 inches and a spread of 36-48 inches, this variety is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a versatile and attractive addition to their outdoor space.
Krossa Regal hosta
Standing tall at 3-4 feet high, this majestic plant presents itself in compact mounds with a symmetrical spread when mature. Its unique foliage boasts blue-green leaves with bright yellow edges, providing a stunning visual contrast. As the seasons change and late summer approaches, delicate lavender flowers emerge, adding an extra layer of charm to its already regal appearance. When planted in areas receiving full morning sunlight and afternoon shade, this beauty is sure to thrive.
Hosta Vulcan
This striking garden plant boasts a unique combination of characteristics. Its deep green leaves are shaped like hearts, with a prominent white center and lighter green edges that follow an overlapping mound pattern. The plant’s compact size is another notable feature, reaching just 6-10 inches in height and spreading 16-32 inches wide. It thrives in conditions with morning sunlight and dappled shade. When it blooms, lavender flowers attract hummingbirds to the garden during the summer months.
Empress Wu Hosta
Standing at 4-5 feet tall with a sprawling spread of 6-8 feet, ‘Source’ is an impressive hosta variety. Its unique foliage features heart-shaped leaves with veining and a puckered texture in a stunning blue-green hue, accompanied by light-yellow edges. The leaves grow in an overlapping, drooping manner, creating a lush canopy. For optimal growth, this hosta thrives in full shade or cold climates where morning dappled light is available for just a few hours each day.
Consistent moisture is also essential, requiring frequent watering to keep the plant happy and healthy.
Hosta Fire Island
As the seasons transition from spring to summer, the garden transforms into a vibrant tapestry, with this particular hosta cultivar stealing the show. Its bright yellow hue gradually gives way to chartreuse, a mesmerizing display of color that’s hard to ignore. The leaves’ wavy edges and corrugated texture add an extra layer of visual interest, making it a standout in any garden.
Unlike some other yellow-colored hostas, this one is surprisingly sensitive to direct sunlight, requiring a more shaded environment to thrive. But don’t worry – the wait will be worth it, as mid-summer brings the added bonus of lavender-hued blooms. Reaching heights of 10-15 inches, this nursery hybrid is a must-have for any hosta enthusiast looking to add some unique charm to their outdoor space.
Hosta Sum and Substance
One of the most well-known hosta varieties is ‘Golden Tiara’, which boasts an impressive stature, reaching heights of 2-3 feet and spreading out to approximately 5 feet in width. The plant’s leaves are a striking feature, with their heart-shaped profile, deeply veined structure, and glossy texture. As the summer months arrive, the yellow-green leaves transform into a warm golden hue.
This cultivar is also renowned for its vibrant blooms, which appear throughout the summer on stems that reach up to 38 inches in length. The flowers themselves are a light purple shade, adding a pop of color to the overall display. With its impressive size and striking foliage, ‘Golden Tiara’ is a popular choice among hosta enthusiasts and has earned multiple awards for its unique characteristics.
Hosta sieboldiana ‘Elegans’
This stunning hosta variety boasts impressive dimensions, reaching up to 3 feet in height and spreading 4 feet wide as it matures. Its unique foliage features broad, heart-shaped leaves with a glossy sheen, prominent veining, and intricate texture. Throughout most of the growing season, the leaves display a deep green hue before gradually shifting towards a subtle blue-green tone as summer approaches.
The showy blooms emerge in early spring, clustered on stems that can reach up to 36 inches in length. Notably, this hosta is classified as a slow grower, requiring several years to reach its maximum height of 3 feet.
Hosta plantaginea
Hosta plantaginea defies the norm among its fellow hostas by producing large and fragrant white flowers throughout the summer months. This unique characteristic sets it apart from other varieties that are primarily grown for their foliage.
One of the key advantages of Hosta plantaginea is its ability to serve as a versatile ground cover.
It grows to a maximum height of 12-18 inches and spreads outwards to a width of 24 inches, making it an ideal choice for filling in gaps between pavers or stones.
The leaves of the Hosta plantaginea are small and heart-shaped, with a pale green color that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. However, this variety’s tendency to spread quickly means that it may require frequent division every two years to keep it under control.
Hosta Blue Ivory
The Blue Ivory Hosta boasts an attention-grabbing combination of features, starting with its leaves, which display deep blue hues with creamy margins throughout most of the year. Come summer, these leaves transform into vibrant white, making for a striking visual effect. The plant’s flowers are equally alluring, featuring lavender-colored, star-shaped blooms clustered on stems reaching 2 feet in length.
Notably, the Blue Ivory Hosta is a slow-growing variety, with a mature height of 12-18 inches and a spread of approximately 30 inches.
Hosta Dancing Queen
The majestic Hosta features an extraordinary display of foliage, boasting pie-crust shaped leaves with a luxurious satin texture and a vibrant yellow hue that subtly transitions to a lighter shade as the stunning lavender blooms emerge. Notably, this compact cultivar reaches approximately 2 feet in height and spreads between 22-36 inches wide, making it an ideal choice for gardeners seeking a visually striking addition to their outdoor space.
The real showstopper, however, lies in its remarkable color-changing properties, offering a dynamic visual experience that is sure to captivate.
Hosta geisha
With its delicate, crinkled leaves that twist towards the edges, the Geisha hosta is an attractive addition to any garden or indoor space. Whether used as a border plant or in a container, it’s sure to turn heads with its unique foliage and vibrant colors. During most of the year, the leaves display a warm golden yellow hue, but come summer, they transition into a rich dark olive green.
The real showstopper, however, is the light purple, star-shaped blooms that emerge mid-summer atop 2ft stems, nestled among the overlapping leaf mounds. With its steady growth rate and maximum height of 18 inches, this charming hosta is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking addition to their outdoor or indoor spaces.
Hosta Minuteman
The Minuteman is an excellent option for those seeking a stunning underplant. This variety has earned numerous awards for its striking, clump-forming foliage featuring deep green hues and eye-catching white margins. Additionally, it boasts vibrant white streaks running through the center of each leaf. With a mature height of 18 inches and spread of 30 inches, this perennial is well-suited to most gardens.
As summer arrives, delicate lavender blooms burst forth from stems that reach up to 2 feet in length.
Hosta paradigm
Awards abound for this versatile hosta, which excels as an edging, groundcover or container plant. Its striking chartreuse foliage boasts dark green margins, creating a visually appealing contrast. As the seasons transition into summer, the leaves undergo a stunning transformation, shifting from their initial tone to a warm, golden yellow hue. The foliage’s glossy, satiny texture is further accentuated by its deep veins, adding an extra layer of visual interest.
Meanwhile, the plant produces elegant, funnel-shaped flowers that burst forth mid-summer and draw in hummingbirds and songbirds alike, serving as a delightful attraction in any garden setting.
Hosta Paul’s Glory
The majesty of this award-winning hosta is undeniable, thanks in large part to its stunning foliage. The broad, heart-shaped leaves are dense and boast a vibrant color palette that shifts from blue-green and chartreuse to bright yellow with deep green margins as the seasons progress. This perennial thrives at heights ranging from 1-2 feet and spreads up to 3 feet, making it an ideal choice for edging, groundcover, or container gardens.
But what truly sets this hosta apart is its showstopping trumpet-shaped flowers, which burst forth in late summer atop stems that reach an impressive 40 inches. Like the paradigm, these blooms are a hit with hummingbirds, who flock to this plant’s nectar-rich beauty. And as if all that weren’t enough, this hosta boasts natural resistance to slugs and insects – a rare trait among its peers.
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a low-maintenance addition to your garden, this versatile hosta is sure to impress.
Hosta praying hands
At first glance, this particular hosta species appears to be praying hands due to its elegantly folded foliage. However, it’s what sets it apart that makes it truly special – the leaves are narrow, rippled at the edges, and elongated, unlike the typical heart-shaped foliage of many hostas. The dark olive green hue adds a touch of sophistication. In summer, it bursts forth with lilac-colored blooms, making it an even more stunning addition to any garden or container.
Its impressive list of accolades is just the cherry on top, solidifying its reputation as a standout hosta.
Hosta sagae
One of the most outstanding hostas available is this versatile variety. Its unique characteristic is its striking blue-green foliage with a frosted appearance that gradually transforms into a subtle grayish hue as the seasons change. This plant reaches an impressive maximum height of 28 inches, accompanied by a sprawling spread of approximately 54 inches. The crowning glory of this hosta is its majestic deep purple blooms, proudly displayed on sturdy stems reaching up to 2 feet in length.
While it’s relatively easy to cultivate, it does require some care and attention to protect it from the likes of slugs and insects that can be detrimental to its well-being.
FAQs
How many different types of hostas are there?
Hostas are renowned for their striking, multi-colored leaves which can add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. In fact, with over 70 recognized species and an impressive 3,000+ registered cultivars and varieties, it’s no wonder hostas have become a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers alike.
Are hostas poisonous to dogs?
A crucial aspect to consider about hostas is the potential danger they pose to canine companions. The leaves contain a toxic compound called saponin, which in large quantities can be lethal to dogs if ingested. Ingestion of even moderate amounts can trigger symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, ultimately leading to fatal consequences if left untreated.
Are hostas edible?
For generations, the Japanese have savored the tender shoots of young hostas, a tradition that dates back centuries. These youthful greens are typically prepared by boiling or frying them in tempura batter, while others enjoy them raw or blended into salads for a flavor profile reminiscent of asparagus and crisp lettuce.
How long can hostas live?
Hostas, once established, can thrive independently and even tolerate neglect as long as their basic needs are met. In terms of durability, they are known to endure for up to 30 years in partial shade to full shade environments, where they can also flourish in the dappled light of a morning sun.
What plants are the best companions for hostas?
When incorporating hostas into your garden or landscape, it’s essential to choose complementary plants that will enhance their beauty. Some of the best companions for hostas include delicate ferns with painted foliage, as well as flowering perennials like bluebird columbine, Caladium, and Primrose. Coral bells, Toad lily, and Hellebores also provide a lovely contrast in texture and color.
Additionally, Coleus, Brunnera, Impatiens, Bleeding heart, Foxglove, Astilbe, Begonias, Oxalis, Azaleas, Camellias, Rhododendrons, Hydrangeas, Ajuga, and Periwinkle can all thrive alongside hostas. Liriope, in particular, offers a subtle yet effective groundcover that pairs well with the larger hosta leaves.
Conclusion
One of the most appealing aspects of hostas is the sheer variety of options available. You can opt for low-growing ground covers or taller varieties that add a pop of color to your garden. The beauty of hostas lies in their stunning, variegated leaves and clusters of summer blooms, making them an aesthetically pleasing choice for landscaping and containers. While it’s true that slugs and insects can pose a problem, modern hybrids have addressed this issue, offering resistant varieties.
In summary, despite being lesser-known landscape and container plants, hostas are definitely worth considering.
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