Hosta Purple Heart: The Ultimate Guide

Are you looking for an eye-catching plant that will add a pop of color to your garden? Look no further than hosta purple heart! This stunning perennial is known for its striking purple foliage and easy-to-care-for nature. In this guide, we'll dive deep into all things hosta purple heart, including how to care for it, where to plant it, and what makes it such a unique addition to any garden.

What is Hosta Purple Heart?

Hosta purple heart, also known as hosta 'Purple Heart', is a hybrid hosta plant with striking purple leaves. It was first introduced in 2007 by hosta breeder Olga Petryszyn, and it quickly became a favorite among gardeners thanks to its unique color and low-maintenance nature. The plant features large, heart-shaped leaves that range in color from deep purple to almost black. In the summer, the plant produces tall spikes of lavender flowers that add even more visual interest to the garden.

Planting Hosta Purple Heart

If you're interested in adding hosta purple heart to your garden, it's important to choose the right planting location. Hostas prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, so make sure the area where you plan to plant is free of standing water and has plenty of compost or other organic material mixed in. Hostas are shade-loving plants, so look for a spot that gets partial shade throughout the day. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to lose their vibrant color.

Once you've found the perfect spot, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your hosta purple heart plant. Gently place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil and water the plant well to help settle the soil around the roots.

Caring for Hosta Purple Heart

Hosta purple heart is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. To keep your plant healthy and thriving, follow these simple care tips:

Watering:

Hostas prefer moist soil, so make sure to water your plant regularly during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, however, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing:

Hostas benefit from regular fertilization to keep them healthy and promote new growth. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.

Pruning:

Hostas don't require much pruning, but you may want to remove any damaged or dead leaves as needed. This will help keep the plant looking tidy and healthy.

Propagation

If you're interested in propagating your hosta purple heart plant, there are a few different methods you can try:

Division:

Hostas are easy to divide, and this is the most common method of propagation. Wait until the plant has finished blooming in the summer, then carefully dig up the entire plant. Use a sharp knife to separate the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Replant the sections in a new location or give them away to friends and family.

Seed:

Propagation by seed is possible, but it's not recommended for hostas. Seed-grown plants may not be true to the parent plant and can take several years to reach maturity.

Benefits of Hosta Purple Heart

So what makes hosta purple heart such a great addition to any garden? Here are just a few of its benefits:

Low Maintenance:

Hostas are notoriously easy to care for, and hosta purple heart is no exception. With minimal watering and fertilization, this plant will thrive in your garden with little effort on your part.

Eye-Catching Color:

The deep purple leaves of hosta purple heart are truly stunning, and they add a unique pop of color to any garden. Plus, the lavender flowers that appear in the summer only add to the visual interest.

Versatility:

Hostas are incredibly versatile plants that can be used in a variety of ways. Plant them as a border around your garden, use them to fill in shady spots, or create a container garden on your patio.

FAQs

1. Can hosta purple heart tolerate full sun?

No, hostas prefer partial shade and can become scorched if exposed to too much direct sunlight.

2. How often should I fertilize my hosta purple heart plant?

Fertilize your plant once in the spring and again in mid-summer using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.

3. How do I propagate my hosta purple heart plant?

The easiest method of propagation is division. Wait until the plant has finished blooming in the summer, then carefully dig up the entire plant and separate it into smaller sections, each with its own root system.

4. What pests and diseases should I watch out for with hosta purple heart?

Hostas are prone to slug damage, which can cause holes in the leaves. They can also be affected by foliar nematodes, a microscopic pest that causes white or brown streaks on the leaves. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat as needed.

5. Can I grow hosta purple heart in a container?

Yes! Hostas are great container plants and can thrive in pots with well-draining soil and partial shade.



Hosta purple heart is a stunning plant with deep purple foliage that adds a unique pop of color to any garden. With minimal care required, this low-maintenance plant is a great choice for beginning gardeners and experienced pros alike. Whether you plant it as a border around your garden or use it to fill in shady spots, you're sure to love the visual interest and versatility that hosta purple heart provides.