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hosta plants for shade

Looking for the perfect way to add elegance and lush greenery to your shady garden corners? Hosta plants for shade are an unbeatable choice for New Zealand gardens, offering striking foliage, low maintenance, and impressive versatility. Whether you’re designing a serene woodland retreat or looking to brighten a dim side yard, hostas thrive in shade and partial shade, bringing life and colour where other plants struggle.

Acanthus mollis perennial with purple-white flowers above lush, green foliage.

Acanthus mollis (Bears Breeches)

Acanthus mollis, known as Bears Breeches or Oyster Plant, is a bold and striking perennial that adds a touch of elegance to NZ gardens. It features large, glossy, lobed leaves and tall flower spikes adorned with white and purple blooms in summer. This easy-care plant thrives in a variety of conditions and makes a stunning statement in shaded or partially sunny garden areas.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Perennials
Height: 80 cm
Spread: 80 cm
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.

Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

5 from 1 customers

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It features short, bright green leaves with a cream margin as it grows to 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide. Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum is commonly grown indoors in a container though it can be grown outdoors in frost-free areas. In these situations, it is often included in borders, planted around outdoor living areas, mass planted as a groundcover, or planted alongside a path.

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Indoor Plants
Height: 20 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Tropical
Stromanthe triostar plant.
Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

Stromanthe Triostar is a popular indoor plant owing to its lush and colourful foliage. It features elegant, dark green, pink, and cream-coloured...

From$33.05
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Strelitzia nicolai (White Bird Of Paradise Plant)

Strelitzia nicolai (Giant White Bird Of Paradise) is a bold, architectural plant known for its large banana like leaves and striking white and blue...

From$44.09
Carex 'Everlime' plants for sale at The Plant Company nursery.
Carex 'Everlime' (Lime Grass Plant)

Carex ‘Everlime’ (Japanese Sedge) is a popular evergreen sedge valued for its graceful arching green foliage edged with bright lime cream margins...

From$19.95
70-windbreak-2
Shadecloth - 70% Shade (Shade Cloth For Plants)

This shade cloth for plants, which is also used as plant windbreaks, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 70%. Therefore, 30% of the wind or light...

From$499.80
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$21.39
A large Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) in a garden with lush, green leaves.
Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese or Fruit Salad Plant, is a popular indoor tropical plant loved for its striking, holey leaves and...

From$44.09
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.
Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.77
A Spearmint plant with lush, green leaves.
Mint Plant

Mint Plant (Spearmint) is a popular herb grown for its fresh fragrant leaves and versatile use in cooking drinks and home remedies. Well suited to...

From$16.49
50-windbreak-2
Shadecloth - 50% Shade (Shade Cloth)

This shade cloth which is also used as garden windbreak, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 50%. Therefore, 50% of the wind or light will still...

From$428.40
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Windbreak - 50% (Garden Shade Cloth)

This green windbreak is also used as garden shade cloth and reduces light levels and windspeeds by 50%. Therefore, 50% of the wind or light will...

From$856.80
Moss pole for plants.
Moss Pole For Plants (Moss Pole For Plants)

These moss poles for plants are made from Coir Fibre (i.e., the husks of coconuts). They are an eco-friendly option to help plants grow healthier and...

From$6.90
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Fertiliser for acid loving plants (Acid Fertiliser)

Using fertiliser for acid loving plants is important for plants such as Camellias, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, Daphne’s, Gardenia’s, and Hydrangea’s who...

From$8.64
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10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$5.76
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PB18 Planter Bags (Grow Plant Bags)

These PB18 planter bags are 125 microns thick and each bag holds 10 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$77.47
A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$225.86
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1.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$27.36
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5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$79.20
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0.51 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$23.04
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2.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$37.44
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PB¾ Planter Bags (Planting Bags)

The PB ¾ Planter Bags are 80 microns thick and ags hold 0.5 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$15.47
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PB2 Planter Bags (Plastic Plant Bags)

These PB2 planter bags are 80 microns thick and hold 1.2 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for handling...

From$20.54
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PB12 Planter Bags (Grow Bags For Plants)

These PB12 planter bags are 125 microns thick and hold 6.75 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for...

From$57.76
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost-effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$48.96
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PB8 Planter Bags (Potting Bags For Plants)

These PB8 planter bags are 125 microns thick and hold 4.5 litres of potting mix. They are durable and won’t rip which makes them great for handling...

From$51.69
indoor-plant-fertiliser-tablets-1
Indoor Plant Fertiliser Tablets

Indoor plants require feeding from the time you get them home as nurseries typically only put enough fertiliser in the pots to last 4-8 weeks after...

From$36.00
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Indoor Plant Fertiliser

All potted plants require indoor plant fertiliser. This is particularly important as many nurseries only put enough fertiliser in the pots to last...

From$13.40
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Native Plant Fertiliser (Native Fertiliser)

Selecting the correct native plant fertiliser is essential as they often tend to be slow growing and so require a tailored nutrient plan to meet...

From$13.40
White waterproof paper plant tags for sale.
Waterproof Paper Plant Tags

These industry standard labels are made from plastic infused paper which makes them both tough and waterproof. They are widely used across the...

From$26.78
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...

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...

OUT OF STOCK
Acanthus mollis (Bears Breeches)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acanthus, Carex, and Chlorophytum, or related Categories - Shadecloth & Windbreak, Grasses, and Indoor Plants.

Search hosta plants for shade

Why Choose Hosta Plants for Shade?

Hosta plants for shade are renowned for their attractive, broad leaves and their ability to flourish with very limited sun exposure. Their bold textures and shades—ranging from deep blue-green to vibrant gold and variegated patterns—make them a standout option for gardeners aiming to add interest beneath trees, against walls, or in borders. Hostas are also hard-working perennials, returning year after year with ever-increasing vigour, making them a reliable foundation for any shade-loving plant collection.

Top Hosta Varieties for Your Shade Garden

There’s a wide variety of hosta plants, each with unique foliage colours and sizes to suit any landscape scheme. For a true burst of brilliance, consider Hosta Pizzazz, known for its dramatic, highly variegated leaves. If you prefer cooler tones, the classic Hosta 'Halcyon' (Hosta halcyon) is prized for its steely blue leaves and excellent slug resistance. The compact Hosta Blue Mouse Ears is perfect for edging pots and small garden spaces, boasting neat, rounded leaves.

If you want to add a striking edge to shady beds, Hosta Twilight stands out with its dark green centres and creamy margins, brightening even the darkest corners. And for gardeners after bold contrast, Hosta Minuteman features crisp white and green variegation, making it a real eye-catcher in any planting scheme.

Planting Tips for Hostas in Shade

Planting hosta plants for shade is straightforward, but a few simple steps will help you get the best results. Choose a location with dappled or morning sun and afternoon shade, avoiding direct, harsh sunlight. Enrich your soil with plenty of compost to retain moisture, as hostas enjoy consistent watering, especially during the dry summer months. Mulching around your plants helps keep the roots cool and deters weeds.

Slug and snail control is essential, as these pests are the primary threat to healthy hostas. Regular inspections and barriers can help protect your plants as they establish.

Designing with Hosta Plants for Shade

Hostas are fantastic for underplanting trees, edging paths, or as ground cover in perennial beds. Their foliage pairs beautifully with ferns, hellebores, and astilbes, creating a lush, layered look. Mix different hosta varieties such as Hosta Pizzazz, Hosta 'Halcyon' (Hosta halcyon), and Hosta Blue Mouse Ears to add dimension, texture, and varying shades of green.

Explore our curated selection of hosta plants and transform your shady spots into a vibrant oasis that returns year after year. Hostas are a must-have for any New Zealand garden seeking long-lasting beauty in the shade.


Contact us

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.

Gardenia radicans and Lomandra 'Tanika' are classic choices, but adventurous gardeners will enjoy Grape Buffalo, Graptopetalum paraguayense, and Cornus kousa 'China Girl'.
–The Plant Company

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