Exploring the Beauty of Colored Hostas: A Guide to Landscaping with These Unique Plants

Why Colored Hostas are the New Trend in Landscaping

When it comes to landscaping, there are few plants that can compete with hostas. These shade-loving perennials are versatile, easy to grow, and come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. But if you really want to make a statement in your garden or yard, you should consider adding some colored hostas to your collection.

Colored hostas are a relatively new trend in landscaping, but one that is quickly gaining popularity. Unlike traditional green hostas, colored hostas come in shades of blue, gold, yellow, red, and even white. They offer a unique and eye-catching alternative to the more common varieties of hostas, and can be used in a variety of ways to add interest and personality to your outdoor space.

In this blog post, we'll explore the beauty of colored hostas and provide tips and ideas for incorporating them into your landscaping. We'll cover everything from the different colors and varieties of hostas available, to the best ways to plant and care for these unique plants. So whether you're a seasoned gardener or just ing out, read on to discover the world of colored hostas.

The Different Colors and Varieties of Colored Hostas

One of the most appealing things about colored hostas is the wide range of colors and varieties available. From deep blues and purples to bright yellows and greens, there is a colored hosta to suit every taste and style. Some of the most popular colors and varieties include:

Blue Hostas

Blue hostas are perhaps the most popular type of colored hosta, thanks to their striking, cool-toned foliage. They range from light blue to dark blue, and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some popular blue hostas include:

• Blue Angel: A large, heart-shaped hosta with blue-green leaves.
• Halcyon: A medium-sized hosta with thick, blue-green leaves.
• Great Expectations: A large hosta with blue-green leaves that have white streaks.

Gold Hostas

Gold hostas are another popular type of colored hosta, thanks to their warm, sunny hues. They come in shades of yellow and gold, and can add a bright pop of color to any garden or yard. Some popular gold hostas include:

• Golden Tiara: A small hosta with bright yellow-green leaves.
• Sum and Substance: A large hosta with chartreuse leaves.
• August Moon: A medium-sized hosta with golden-yellow leaves.

Red Hostas

If you really want to make a statement with your colored hostas, consider adding some red varieties to your collection. These hostas range from deep burgundy to bright cherry red, and can add a dramatic touch to any landscape. Some popular red hostas include:

• Crimson Pirate: A small hosta with deep red leaves.
• Fire Island: A medium-sized hosta with bright red leaves.
• First Blush: A medium-sized hosta with burgundy-red leaves that turn green as they mature.

Variegated Hostas

Another popular type of colored hosta is the variegated variety. These hostas have leaves with a combination of two or more colors, often including shades of green, white, and yellow. Some popular variegated hostas include:

• Patriot: A medium-sized hosta with green leaves that have white margins.
• Francee: A medium-sized hosta with dark green leaves that have white centers.
• Gold Standard: A large hosta with green leaves that have yellow margins.

Planting and Caring for Colored Hostas

Once you've decided on the types of colored hostas you want to add to your garden or yard, it's important to know how to plant and care for them properly. Here are some tips and guidelines to keep in mind:

Choosing the Right Location

Colored hostas thrive in shaded or partially shaded areas, so it's important to choose a spot that gets limited sun exposure. They also prefer moist, well-drained soil, so make sure the soil in your chosen location is rich and loamy.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your colored hostas, you should prepare the soil by loosening it up and adding organic matter like compost or peat moss. This will help ensure that the soil is rich and fertile, which is essential for healthy hosta growth.

Planting Your Hostas

When planting your colored hostas, be sure to dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, being careful not to bury the crown of the plant. Water the hosta thoroughly after planting to help it settle into its new home.

Caring for Your Hostas

To keep your colored hostas healthy and looking their best, there are a few key things you should do:

• Water regularly: Colored hostas need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize annually: You can fertilize your colored hostas once a year with a slow-release fertilizer to help promote healthy growth.
• Prune as needed: If your hostas to look overgrown or crowded, you can prune them back to maintain their shape.
• Watch for pests: Hostas can be susceptible to pests like slugs and snails, so keep an eye out for any signs of damage and take action if necessary.

Ideas for Incorporating Colored Hostas into Your Landscaping

Now that you know how to plant and care for colored hostas, it's time to think about how to incorporate them into your landscaping. Here are some ideas to get you ed:

Create a Hosta Garden

If you really want to showcase your colored hostas, consider creating a dedicated hosta garden. This could be a small corner of your yard or a larger area, depending on how many hostas you have. Arrange the hostas in groups according to color or size, and add other shade-loving plants like ferns or astilbes for a cohesive look.

Plant Hostas in Containers

If you don't have a lot of space for a full hosta garden, consider planting your colored hostas in containers instead. This is a great option for small patios or balconies, and allows you to move the plants around as needed to get the best light.

Use Hostas as Edging Plants

Colored hostas can make a great border or edging plant, thanks to their low-growing habit. Plant them along the edge of a pathway or garden bed to create a defined border that adds interest and texture to your landscaping.

Add Hostas to a Woodland Garden

If you have a wooded area on your property, consider adding some colored hostas to the mix. The shade-loving plants will thrive in this environment, and can add pops of color and texture to the natural landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colored Hostas

1. Can colored hostas be grown in full sun?

No, colored hostas prefer shaded or partially shaded areas and will not do well in full sun.

2. How often should colored hostas be watered?

Colored hostas should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

3. Do hostas attract pests?

Yes, hostas can be susceptible to pests like slugs and snails. To prevent damage, take steps to control these pests when necessary.

4. Can you divide colored hostas?

Yes, colored hostas can be divided every few years to promote healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.

5. What is the best time of year to plant colored hostas?

The best time to plant colored hostas is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are cooler and the soil is moist.



Colored hostas are a unique and eye-catching addition to any garden or yard. With their wide range of colors and varieties, they offer endless possibilities for creating interesting and beautiful landscaping designs. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can successfully plant and care for colored hostas to create the outdoor space of your dreams.