Hostas are the go to plants for creating lush, layered planting in shady and partially shaded gardens. Known for their bold, architectural leaves and elegant summer flowers, they bring instant texture and a calm, woodland feel to borders, pots and courtyard spaces. Whether you prefer deep greens, blue toned leaves or striking variegated patterns, there is a hosta for every style of garden.
There are many standout varieties to choose from. Hosta Big Daddy has large, blue textured leaves that make a strong statement in deeper shade. Hosta Halcyon is another favourite, with tidy blue grey foliage that stays looking fresh throughout the season. For something brighter, Hosta Patriot offers bold green leaves with crisp white margins, while Hosta Minuteman provides a similar look with slightly thicker, more dramatic variegation. Compact varieties such as Hosta Blue Mouse Ears are perfect for pots and small spaces.
Hostas thrive in shade or dappled light and prefer rich, moist soil. Once planted, they are reliable, hardy and long lived, returning bigger and stronger each year. A layer of mulch helps keep the soil cool and moist, and removing spent flowers keeps plants looking tidy through summer.
These foliage stars pair beautifully with other shade loving plants. Combine Hostas with ferns, heuchera, brunnera or hardy geraniums for a soft, natural look, or mix them with astilbe and pulmonaria for extra colour beneath trees and shrubs. Their broad leaves contrast perfectly with fine textured plants, helping to create depth and structure in shaded borders.
For more inspiration, explore our collections of shade tolerant shrubs, perennials, woodland plants and low maintenance plants.
