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different varieties of hostas

If you’re looking to transform your shady garden areas with lush foliage and easy-care perennials, exploring the different varieties of hostas is a fantastic starting point. Cherished by gardeners across New Zealand for their adaptability and stunning leaf textures, hostas offer an incredible range of shapes, colours, and sizes. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your hosta journey, you’ll find that there’s a perfect hosta for every nook of your landscape.

Austrocylindropuntia vestita plant with red flowers.

Austrocylindropuntia vestita (Furry Cactus)

Austrocylindropuntia vestita, commonly known as the Furry Cactus, is a smaller cactus grown for its interesting form. It produces towers made up of fleshy stems covered in white fur. The stems will often twist in different directions, and it typically grows to 60 cm tall and 20 cm wide.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Cactus
Height: 60 cm
Spread: 20 cm
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Paths & Steps, Patios
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock
Opuntia subulata plants in a desert.

Opuntia subulata

Opuntia sublata, commonly known as Eve’s Needle Cactus, is a smaller cactus grown for its interesting form. It produces towers made up of fleshy stems covered with fine, needle-like leaves, and the stems will often twist in different directions.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Cactus
Height: 40 cm
Spread: 25 cm
Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock
black-polythene-2-m-wide-
2m wide Black Polythene

This polythene is 80 microns thick, very durable, and suits a host of different uses. Please enquire about larger sizes and heavier grades.

From$254.60
Gorgeous Hydrangea macrophylla 'Ayesha' pink flowers.
Hydrangea 'Ayesha'

Hydrangea 'Ayesha' is a distinctive variety prized for its lilac-like flower clusters and subtle fragrance. The waxy, spoon-shaped petals and glossy...

From$21.95
black-polythene-1-m-wide-
1m wide Black Polythene

This polythene is 80 microns thick, very durable, and suits a host of different uses. Please enquire about larger sizes and heavier grades.

From$138.40
Luisa' plum tree covered in yellow fruit.
Plum 'Luisa'

The 'Luisa' Plum is a popular variety that produces good yields of large, yellow-skinned fruit, blushed with red. The flesh is firm, yellow, sweet...

From$404.59
Hosta 'Twilight' plant with lush foliage.
Hosta 'Twilight'

Hosta 'Twilight' is a striking variegated hosta with blue green leaves edged in creamy yellow that bring contrast and brightness to shaded NZ...

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Hosta 'Loyalist' plant with cream and green leaves.
Hosta 'Loyalist'

Hosta 'Loyalist' is a striking variegated hosta with bold green margins and a crisp white centre that brings brightness to shaded NZ gardens. This...

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hosta-so-sweet-1
Hosta 'So Sweet'

Hosta 'So Sweet' is a charming variegated hosta with glossy green leaves edged in creamy white and fragrant summer flowers that add extra appeal...

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Hosta 'Kiwi Skyscraper' plant with blue foliage.
Hosta 'Kiwi Skyscraper'

Hosta 'Kiwi Skyscraper' is a bold upright variety that stands out with its tall habit and lush green foliage, adding height and structure to shaded...

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Hosta 'Patriot' plant with variegated leaves.
Hosta 'Patriot'

Hosta 'Patriot' is a standout variegated hosta featuring rich green leaves edged with bold white margins that instantly brighten shaded NZ gardens...

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hosta-wide-brim-5
Hosta Wide Brim

Hosta Wide Brim is grown for its lush and variegated foliage. The bold and glossy leaves are dark green-blue with a large cream-yellow margin...

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Hosta 'Little Sunspot' plant with green and yellow variegated leaves.
Hosta 'Little Sunspot'

Hosta 'Little Sunspot' is a compact and eye catching variety with bright golden foliage that lights up shaded NZ gardens. Its smaller size makes it...

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Hosta 'Pandoras Box' plant with cream and green leaves.
Hosta 'Pandoras Box'

Hosta 'Pandoras Box' is a charming miniature hosta with striking variegated foliage featuring creamy white centres edged with deep green margins...

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hosta-minuteman-1
Hosta 'Minuteman'

Hosta 'Minuteman' is a bold and elegant hosta featuring deep green leaves edged with crisp white margins that bring strong contrast to shaded NZ...

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Hosta 'Colour Glory' plant.
Hosta 'Colour Glory'

Hosta 'Colour Glory' is a stunning perennial known for its bold blue green leaves edged with creamy yellow. It adds vibrant contrast and texture to...

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hosta-blue-mammoth-3
Hosta Blue Mammoth

Hosta Blue Mammoth is grown for its lush and attractive foliage. The bold and glossy leaves are powdery blue with a chiffon-like texture. The foliage...

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Hosta 'Krossa Regal' plants with lush, blue leaves.
Hosta 'Krossa Regal'

Hosta 'Krossa Regal' is a striking upright hosta known for its large blue green leaves and elegant vase shaped form. This variety brings height and...

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Hosta 'Fire And Ice' plant.
Hosta 'Fire and Ice'

Hosta 'Fire and Ice' is a striking perennial known for its bold white leaves edged with deep green. It brings strong contrast and brightness to...

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hosta-golden-falls-1
Hosta Golden Falls

The Hosta Golden Falls plant features rounded that are yellow with a lime-green undertone. In summer bell-shaped, lilac flowers appear and are held...

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Hosta 'Brim Cup' plant with variegated foliage.
Hosta 'Brim Cup'

Hosta 'Brim Cup' is a compact perennial known for its blue green leaves edged with creamy yellow that mature to soft cream. It brings gentle contrast...

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Hosta 'Sagae' plant with green and cream variegated leaves.
Hosta 'Sagae'

Hosta 'Sagae' is a large and impressive hosta with striking blue green leaves edged with golden margins, making it a standout in shaded NZ gardens...

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hosta-blue-angel-6
Hosta Blue Angel

Hosta 'Blue Angel' is a magnificent perennial prized for its enormous blue grey leaves that create a bold architectural statement in shaded gardens...

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Hosta univittata plants with lush green leaves, striped with white.
Hosta undulata univittata

Hosta undulata univittata is a classic shade loving perennial valued for its wavy green leaves marked with a creamy white central stripe. Well suited...

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Hosta 'Francee' plants with lush green foliage edged with white.
Hosta 'Francee'

Hosta 'Francee' is a classic shade loving perennial valued for its deep green leaves edged with crisp white margins. Well suited to New Zealand...

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hosta-dew-drop-2
Hosta 'Dew Drop'

Hosta 'Dew Drop' is a charming perennial known for its soft green foliage edged with creamy white. It brings a fresh, bright look to shaded areas in...

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hosta-purple-heart-
Hosta Purple Heart

Hosta Purple Heart features lush foliage and pretty flowers. The foliage comprises lime-green leaves held on dark stems. Violet-purple flowers are...

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Hosta 'Sum and Substance' plant with yellow foliage.
Hosta 'Sum and Substance'

Hosta 'Sum and Substance' is a bold and dramatic hosta prized for its large chartreuse to golden leaves that bring vibrant colour and scale to shaded...

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Hosta 'Flemish Sky' plant with wavy, blue foliage.
Hosta 'Flemish Sky'

Hosta 'Flemish Sky' features impressively coloured foliage. The foliage comprises broad and wavy, intense blue leaves that are simply stunning. In...

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Colourful foliage on a Hosta 'Lemon and Lime' plant.
Hosta ''Lemon and Lime'

Hosta 'Lemon and Lime' is grown for its yellow and lime coloured foliage. The leaves are heart-shaped and have a somewhat wavy appearance. This...

OUT OF STOCK
Hosta 'Pizzazz' plant with blue and white variegated leaves.
Hosta 'Pizzazz'

Hosta 'Pizzazz' is a striking shade loving perennial grown for its bold variegated foliage that brings colour, texture, and elegance to New Zealand...

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Hosta 'Great Expectations' plant with green and yellow variegated leaves.
Hosta 'Great Expectations'

Hosta 'Great Expectations' is a magnificent shade loving perennial valued for its large blue green leaves with broad margins surrounding a creamy...

OUT OF STOCK
Austrocylindropuntia vestita (Furry Cactus)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Austrocylindropuntia, Hosta, and Hydrangea, or related Categories - Black polythene, Cactus, and Plum Trees.

Search different varieties of hostas

What Makes Hostas So Popular?

Hostas have earned their status as the backbone of shade gardens for good reason. Not only are they reliable and low maintenance, but their foliage comes in a dazzling palate—greens, blues, golds, and striking variegations abound. Plus, they’re wonderfully tolerant of New Zealand’s varied weather, making them easy companions for both beginners and expert gardeners.

Exploring Different Varieties of Hostas

With so many different varieties of hostas available, it’s easy to feel spoiled for choice. Among the most beloved, Hosta Elegans stands out for its substantial blue-green leaves and impressive size, making it an eye-catching focal point. For those who prefer a hosta that’s just as fragrant as it is beautiful, Hosta So Sweet offers glossy green leaves edged with creamy white and delicate, perfumed blooms.

If you love the contrast of blue and gold in your garden, Hosta First Frost flaunts frosty blue leaves with bright yellow margins—maturing to white as the season progresses. Hosta Patriot is another favourite, prized for its bold, dark green leaves framed with crisp white edges, adding structure and brightness to shaded beds.

And for those seeking something truly unique, Hosta Great Expectations lives up to its name with large, puckered leaves that shift from blue-green to creamy yellow and white as they mature. Its dramatic foliage brings texture and intrigue to borders and woodland gardens.

Tips for Growing and Caring for Different Varieties of Hostas

No matter which different varieties of hostas you choose for your garden, they generally thrive in moist, well-drained soil and shaded to semi-shaded positions. Regular mulching helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds, while a yearly top-up of compost keeps their roots happy. Watch for slugs and snails, as these are the only pests likely to trouble your hostas, especially during spring.

Create a Lush Shade Garden With Hostas

By mixing and matching different varieties of hostas like Hosta Elegans, Hosta So Sweet, Hosta First Frost, Hosta Patriot, and Hosta Great Expectations, you can craft a tapestry of colour and texture that lasts throughout the growing season. Drought-tolerant, shade-loving, and wonderfully resilient, hostas are a must-have for every New Zealand garden wanting lasting beauty and easy charm.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Agapanthus 'Gayles Lilac' and Rhododendron 'Black Magic' have stood the test of time, but new generations of gardeners are discovering Acer palmatum 'Senkaki', Sophora fulvida, and Hibiscus 'Blushing Bride'.
–The Plant Company

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