Hosta 'Royal Standard'

Thrives in partial to full shade, making it one of the best choices for covered porches, north-facing patios, and shaded garden corners where few other plants perform as reliably. 'Royal Standard' is notably more sun-tolerant than most hostas and can handle morning sun well, but protect from hot afternoon sun which will scorch and bleach the foliage.

Keep soil consistently moist, watering every 5–7 days or more frequently during dry summer spells. Container-grown plants dry out faster than in-ground plantings and will need more regular attention in warm weather. Consistent moisture is especially important during the flowering period to support the fragrant white bloom stalks.

Appreciates the naturally higher ambient moisture found in shaded, sheltered outdoor locations such as covered porches and woodland garden settings. Supplemental humidity is not required, but consistent soil moisture and a shaded position help maintain the lush, glossy appearance of the foliage throughout the season.

One of the most cold-hardy plants in our collection, withstanding extreme winter temperatures with ease when in the ground. Container plants should be moved to a sheltered, frost-free location in Zones 3–4 during extreme cold to protect the root system. It handles warm summer temperatures well, especially when given adequate shade and moisture.

An exceptionally cold-hardy perennial that performs reliably in the ground across Zones 3–8, dying back to the ground each winter and returning with vigor each spring. In containers on a porch or patio, it provides a spectacular seasonal display from spring through fall. For in-ground planting, it will naturalize into an ever-expanding, low-maintenance clump over the years.

Feed once in early spring as the first shoots emerge and again in midsummer with a balanced fertilizer. A formula with balanced or slightly higher nitrogen supports the lush, bold foliage this plant is celebrated for. Our Instant Plant Food mixed into your spring and summer watering schedule gives 'Royal Standard' the steady nutrition it needs to produce its impressive leaf display and fragrant late-summer blooms.

Repot container plants every two years in early spring before new growth emerges. Choose a wide, generous container with good drainage — hostas develop substantial root systems. Use a rich, moisture-retentive potting mix amended with compost. For in-ground planting, choose a shaded or dappled location with rich, humus-heavy, moist soil. Water thoroughly after repotting or transplanting.

Remove any slug-damaged, yellowing, or tattered leaves throughout the season as needed to keep the plant looking its best. Cut back all foliage to the ground in late fall after the first frost to tidy the plant for winter. Deadhead flower stalks after blooming finishes. In spring, clear away any remaining dead foliage before the new season's growth emerges.

Divide in early spring just as the new shoots emerge from the ground, or in early fall. Dig up the entire clump and separate into sections using a sharp spade — each division should have several growth points and a healthy root system. Replant or pot at the same depth as before, water thoroughly, and keep consistently moist until established. Divisions taken in fall should be well-watered before winter sets in.