Red Hosta: A Beautiful and Unique Addition to Your Garden

Are you tired of the same old plants in your garden? Do you want to add some color and excitement to your outdoor space? Look no further than red hostas! These stunning plants are sure to turn heads and impress all who see them.

What are Red Hostas?

Red hostas are a type of perennial plant that are known for their vibrant red leaves. They are part of the Hosta genus, which includes over 70 different species. While most hostas have green or blue-green leaves, red hostas stand out with their unique coloration.

Planting and Care

If you're interested in adding red hostas to your garden, it's important to know how to properly plant and care for them. Here are some tips to get you ed:

Planting

When planting red hostas, it's best to choose a location that gets partial shade. These plants prefer moist, well-draining soil, so make sure to add compost or other organic matter to the soil before planting. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant, and water it thoroughly after planting.

Watering

Red hostas need regular watering to thrive. Make sure to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. During periods of hot, dry weather, you may need to water your hostas more frequently to prevent them from drying out.

Fertilizing

To promote healthy growth and vibrant color, it's a good idea to fertilize your red hostas once or twice a year. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, and apply it in the spring or early summer.

Red Hosta Varieties

While all red hostas have striking red leaves, there are actually several different varieties to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular:

Scarlet Flame

This variety has deep red leaves with a slightly wavy texture. It grows up to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide, making it a great choice for borders or as a ground cover.

Fire Island

Fire Island is a smaller variety of red hosta, growing to just 10 inches tall and 14 inches wide. Its leaves are a bright shade of red-orange, and it produces lavender flowers in the summer.

Red October

Red October is another large variety of red hosta, growing up to 24 inches tall and 48 inches wide. Its leaves are a rich burgundy color, and it produces pale lavender flowers in late summer.

Red Hosta Companion Plants

If you're looking to create a stunning garden display, it's important to choose companion plants that will complement your red hostas. Here are some ideas to get you ed:

Ferns

Ferns are a great choice for planting alongside red hostas, as they provide a contrasting texture and color. Try planting Japanese painted ferns or lady ferns for a beautiful effect.

Heuchera

Heuchera, also known as coral bells, are another great companion plant for red hostas. They come in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, and green, and their delicate flowers add a softness to the garden.

Astilbe

Astilbe is a flowering plant that comes in shades of pink, red, and white. Its feathery plumes provide a nice contrast to the bold leaves of red hostas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can red hostas grow in full sun?

A: While some hostas can tolerate full sun, red hostas prefer partial shade. They will do best in a location that gets morning sun and afternoon shade.

Q: How often should I water my red hostas?

A: Red hostas need regular watering to thrive. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water them every day or every other day to keep the soil moist.

Q: Do red hostas attract pests?

A: Like all plants, red hostas can be susceptible to pests like slugs and snails. To prevent infestations, make sure to keep the area around your hostas clean and free of debris.

Q: When should I divide my red hostas?

A: Red hostas can be divided in the spring or fall, when the weather is cool and damp. Make sure to dig up the entire clump and separate it into smaller sections before replanting.

Q: Can I grow red hostas in containers?

A: Yes! Red hostas can be grown in containers as long as they have enough room to spread out their roots. Make sure to choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide, and use a high-quality potting mix.


Red hostas are a beautiful and unique addition to any garden. With their striking red leaves and wide range of varieties, they are sure to impress all who see them. By following the tips in this article, you can plant and care for your red hostas with confidence.