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variegated hostas for shade

Transform your shady garden spaces with stunning variegated hostas for shade. These hardy perennials are a favourite in New Zealand gardens, loved for their striking foliage, easy-care nature, and ability to brighten up even the darkest corners. With distinctive leaves splashed or edged with creamy whites, golds, or lime greens, variegated hostas create long-lasting interest from spring through to autumn. Whether you’re designing a lush woodland border, filling out a shaded courtyard, or searching for elegant ground cover beneath trees, variegated hostas deliver reliable beauty and a touch of sophistication.

Acorus gramineus variegata plants growing in pots with green and cream foliage.

Acorus gramineus variegatus

Acorus gramineus variegatus, commonly known as Variegated Sweet Flag, is an attractive ornamental grass-like plant prized for its elegant green and cream-striped leaves. This hardy, evergreen perennial thrives in NZ gardens and is perfect for adding texture, colour, and movement to wet or shaded areas. Ideal for borders, water features, or pots, it’s a low-maintenance plant that delivers year-round appeal and versatility.

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Grasses
Height: 30 cm
Spread: 30 cm
Tolerances: Hardy, Wet
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Parks, Paths & Steps, Patios, Ponds, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Riparian
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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 still pass through. This premium, knitted cloth is made from HDPE Monofilament to ensure is does not rip. The cloth has been UV stabilised for NZ conditions and comes with a ten-year UV warranty. The standard colour is green but different colours are available on request. Be sure to order the Shade/Windbreak clips to lock the cloth to support wires. This item comes in a 3.66 m wide roll that is 50 m long.

Chlorophytum comosum variegatum plants growing in pots on a shelf.
Chlorophytum comosum variegatum (Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum Variegatum, commonly known as the Spider Plant, is a tender, herbaceous perennial grown for its lush and variegated foliage. It...

From$20.01
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
Ajuga reptans 'Variegata' plants with variegated foliage and blue flowers.
Ajuga reptans variegata

Ajuga reptans 'Variegata' is a quick-growing, ground-covering plant that features colourful leaves that are variegated green and cream. In spring, it...

From$17.87
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
Ctenanthe lubbersiana plant with yellow and green foliage.
Ctenanthe lubbersiana

Ctenanthe lubbersiana, commonly known as the Bamburanta Plant is a lush foliage plant that is commonly grown indoors as a potted plant. It features...

From$44.09
Liriope muscari 'Silver Ribbon' plants with a beautiful variegated foliage growing in a pot.
Liriope 'Silver Ribbon' (Variegated Liriope)

Liriope 'Silver Ribbon', commonly known as Variegated Lilyturf, produces arching, green leaves with a silver overtone, and striped with cream. Short...

From$14.50
Buxus sempervirens variegata (Variegated Box) shrub with lush and colourful foliage.
Buxus sempervirens 'variegata'

Buxus sempervirens 'variegata' features small, mid-green leaves with cream-white edges on new growth, which age to become a darker green. It grows to...

From$16.95
A large Calamagrostis 'Overdam' grass with elegant, variegated foliage.
Calamagrostis 'Overdam'

Calamagrostis ‘Overdam’ is a striking variegated ornamental grass that delivers elegant upright form and delicate texture to garden borders and...

From$19.95
Hedera 'Silver Variegata' dark green and cream variegated foliage.
Hedera 'Silver Variegated'

Hedera ‘Silver Variegated’ is a striking evergreen ivy with silvery-green leaves edged in creamy white. Its elegant variegation brightens shaded...

From$14.95
Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' plants in pots.
Coprosma kirkii 'variegata'

Coprosma kirkii 'Variegata' is a hardy NZ native groundcover shrub admired for its trailing habit and attractive variegated foliage of green edged...

From$16.95
schefflera-variegata-
Schefflera arboricola variegated

The variegated Schefflera (Schefflera arboricola Variegated) is an evergreen shrub commonly grown as a houseplant due to its attractive and...

From$19.95
Liriope muscari 'Gold Banded' plants with colourful, variegated foliage and pink flowers.
Liriope 'Gold Banded' (Variegated Liriope)

Liriope 'Gold Banded' produces green leaves edged with gold, and masses of lavender coloured flowers in summer. This herbaceous perennial grows as a...

From$17.95
Cordyline Showoff with green foliage growing by a shop against a black wall.
Cordyline Showoff

Cordyline 'Showoff' is a vibrant, clump-forming variety renowned for its striking, variegated foliage in pink, red, and green, which adds instant...

From$35.19
Pittosporum eugenioides variegatum lush foliage.
Pittosporum eugenioides 'variegatum' (Variegated Tarata)

Pittosporum eugenioides Variegatum, commonly known as Variegated Tarata, features slender, dark coloured stems which bear dark green leaves with a...

From$22.01
Pandorea jasminoides variegata pink flower and variegated foliage.
Pandorea jasminoides variegata

Pandorea jasminoides 'Variegata' is a climber that features light pink, trumpet-shaped flowers with a dark pink throat from spring through autumn...

From$24.95
Cordyline australis albertii plants with variegated foliage.
Cordyline albertii

Cordyline albertii (Variegated Cabbage Tree) is a striking evergreen tree admired for its bold green leaves edged with creamy white variegation. This...

From$340.69
Ophiopogon japonicus Silver Mist grass in a garden.
Ophiopogon 'Silver Mist' (Silver Mondo Grass)

Ophiopogon 'Silver Mist' is a dwarf silver Mondo Grass, and features fine, grass-like foliage that is variegated dark green and white. It typically...

From$6.95
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Acer palmatum 'Shirazz'

Acer palmatum 'Shirazz' is a stunning variegated Japanese Maple admired for its rich purple red foliage edged with soft pink. The colourful leaves...

From$299.95
Metrosideros kermadecensis 'variegata' red flowers and variegated foliage.
Metrosideros kermadecensis variegata (Variegated Pohutukawa)

Metrosideros kermadecensis 'Variegata' is a striking NZ native shrub or small tree admired for its glossy green leaves edged with creamy variegation...

From$30.29
peperomia-clusiifolia-
Peperomia clusiifolia

Peperomia clusiifolia, commonly known as the Jelly Plant, is a popular and easy to grow indoor plant. It produces short stems carrying thick and...

From$34.43
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Agave americana variegata

Agave americana variegata, commonly known as the Variegated Century Plant, is a large succulent that features broad, powder-blue leaves with yellow...

From$15.95
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Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo'

Acer palmatum 'Ukigumo' is a rare and highly ornamental Japanese Maple treasured for its striking white and pink variegated foliage. Often called the...

From$349.95
Senecio rowleyanus variegata (Variegated String of Pearls) with trailing foliage growing in a pot.
Senecio rowleyanus variegata

Senecio rowleyanus variegata, commonly known as the Variegated String of Pearls, is a succulent grown for its interesting, bead-like foliage. It...

From$26.15
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...

OUT OF STOCK
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...

OUT OF STOCK
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
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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...

OUT OF STOCK
Hosta 'Queen Josephine' plant with variegated leaves.
Hosta 'Queen Josephine'

Hosta 'Queen Josephine' is an elegant shade loving perennial that brings outstanding colour and texture to New Zealand gardens. Its attractive...

OUT OF STOCK
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...

OUT OF STOCK
Acorus gramineus variegatus

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acorus, Ajuga, and Buxus, or related Categories - Shadecloth & Windbreak, Grasses, and Groundcover Plants.

Search variegated hostas for shade

Why Choose Variegated Hostas for Shade?

Variegated hostas are the perfect solution for shady gardens where other plants might struggle. Their vibrant patterned leaves reflect light, visually lifting dim areas and adding bold contrast to companion ferns, astilbes, and heucheras. Most types thrive in partial to full shade, withstanding cold winters and adapting well to New Zealand’s varied climates. Once established, hostas require minimal maintenance—just mulch to retain moisture, occasional watering during dry spells, and a spot sheltered from strong afternoon sun and wind.

Top Variegated Hostas for New Zealand Gardens

There’s a dazzling array of variegated hostas for shade to suit every taste and garden style. For a classic look, Hosta Minuteman features deep green leaves margined with crisp white, creating a sophisticated mound of foliage that looks good throughout the season. If you’d like a hosta that adds a golden glow to your garden, Hosta 'Golden Tiara' (Hosta Golden Tiara) is an excellent choice, with compact growth and chartreuse-edged leaves—the perfect edging plant for pathways and borders.

For something truly eye-catching, Hosta Patriot delivers bold drama with its thick leaves boldly outlined in white, while Hosta Queen Josephine combines muted blue-green leaves with creamy-yellow margins for a unique multicolour effect. Don’t miss Hosta Pizzazz if you want a large, architectural feature plant—it offers broad, showy leaves with strong variegation that will be a highlight in any shaded landscape.

Planting and Caring for Variegated Hostas

Plant your variegated hostas for shade in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Hostas are happiest with consistent moisture, especially during the warmer months, so mulch well to help retain soil dampness. Slugs and snails can nibble hosta leaves, so lookout for these garden pests and manage them promptly. In autumn, cut back old foliage as plants go dormant—new growth will emerge fresh and vibrant each spring.

Brighten Shade with Variegated Hostas

Variegated hostas for shade are unbeatable for adding texture, colour, and structure beneath trees or alongside buildings. Explore our collection of hostas today and discover how easy it is to achieve a lush, inviting shade garden in your own backyard. From the striking white margins of Hosta Patriot to the golden hues of Hosta 'Golden Tiara' (Hosta Golden Tiara), the perfect hosta is waiting to brighten your garden’s shaded spots.


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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.

–The Plant Company

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