Shining Bright: Small Hostas for Sun

The Best Small Hostas for Sun

Are you looking for small and compact hostas that can thrive in the sun? Look no further! In this article, we'll discuss some of the best small hostas that can add brightness to your garden even in full sun.



Hostas have always been known as shade-loving plants, but did you know that there are varieties that can tolerate sun too? These small hostas can add an extra layer of texture and color to your garden while being easy to maintain. But with so many options out there, it's difficult to know which ones to choose. Don't worry, we've got you covered!

Why Choose Small Hostas?

Small hostas may be diminutive in size, but they pack a punch when it comes to adding interest and color to your garden. They're perfect for smaller spaces or for planting in containers. Plus, they're easy to care for and require minimal maintenance compared to other plants.

15 Best Small Hostas for Sun

Here are our top picks for small hostas that can thrive in full sun:

1. 'Blue Mouse Ears'

This compact hosta has blue-green leaves and produces lavender flowers in the summer months. It's perfect for planting in rock gardens or along borders.

2. 'Pandora's Box'

This small hosta has a green center with creamy-white margins. It's perfect for planting in containers or as an edging plant.

3. 'Stiletto'

This hosta has narrow, pointed leaves that are green with white margins. It produces pale lavender flowers in the summer and looks great when planted in groups.

4. 'Lemon Lime'

As the name suggests, this hosta has bright lime-green leaves that turn yellow in the sun. It produces lavender flowers in the summer and looks great when planted in groups or as an edging plant.

5. 'Little Sunspot'

This small hosta has green leaves with yellow margins and produces lavender flowers in the summer. It's perfect for planting in containers or as an edging plant.

6. 'Elfin Fire'

This hosta has green leaves with red petioles and produces lavender flowers in the summer. It looks great when planted in groups or alongside other red-leaved plants.

7. 'Cherry Berry'

This small hosta has green leaves with red petioles and produces deep cherry-red flowers in the summer. It's perfect for planting in containers or as an edging plant.

8. 'Rainforest Sunrise'

This hosta has bright chartreuse leaves with dark green margins that turn to a creamy-white color in the sun. It produces lavender flowers in the summer and looks great when planted in groups.

9. 'Golden Tiara'

This small hosta has green leaves with golden-yellow margins and produces lavender flowers in the summer. It's perfect for planting in containers or as an edging plant.

10. 'Blue Mouse Ears'

This compact hosta has blue-green leaves and produces lavender flowers in the summer months. It's perfect for planting in rock gardens or along borders.

11. 'Pandora's Box'

This small hosta has a green center with creamy-white margins. It's perfect for planting in containers or as an edging plant.

12. 'Stiletto'

This hosta has narrow, pointed leaves that are green with white margins. It produces pale lavender flowers in the summer and looks great when planted in groups.

13. 'Lemon Lime'

As the name suggests, this hosta has bright lime-green leaves that turn yellow in the sun. It produces lavender flowers in the summer and looks great when planted in groups or as an edging plant.

14. 'Little Sunspot'

This small hosta has green leaves with yellow margins and produces lavender flowers in the summer. It's perfect for planting in containers or as an edging plant.

15. 'Elfin Fire'

This hosta has green leaves with red petioles and produces lavender flowers in the summer. It looks great when planted in groups or alongside other red-leaved plants.

How to Care for Small Hostas

Small hostas are generally easy to care for as long as you provide them with the right conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your small hostas healthy and happy:

1. Soil

Hostas prefer soil that is rich in organic matter and drains well. Make sure to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

2. Watering

Hostas need regular watering, especially during hot and dry spells. Water deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

3. Fertilizing

Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer to promote healthy growth and flowering.

4. Mulching

Mulch around the base of the plant with a thick layer of organic matter to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

5. Pest Control

Watch out for slugs, which can be a common problem for hostas. Use slug traps, copper tape, or diatomaceous earth to deter them.

The Benefits of Small Hostas

Small hostas are not only beautiful but also beneficial for your garden. They can help improve soil health by adding organic matter as they decompose, and their roots help prevent erosion. Plus, they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies with their flowers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can small hostas grow in full sun?

Yes, there are many small hostas that can tolerate full sun. Look for varieties with thicker leaves or lighter foliage that can handle more direct sunlight.

2. How often should I water my small hostas?

Water your small hostas deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Adjust watering frequency during hot and dry spells.

3. Do small hostas need fertilizer?

Yes, small hostas benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in midsummer to promote healthy growth and flowering.

4. Are small hostas low-maintenance?

Yes, small hostas are generally low-maintenance compared to other plants. They require regular watering and fertilization but are relatively easy to care for.

5. Can you plant small hostas in containers?

Yes, small hostas are perfect for planting in containers. Choose varieties that stay compact and have shallow root systems.



Small hostas can add a lot of interest and color to your garden, even in full sun. With the right care and conditions, they're easy to maintain and can attract pollinators too. We hope this article has helped you discover some new small hostas to try in your garden.