Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Hosta 'El Nino'
El Nino Hosta
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 1.5 ft to 2 ft
- Width
- 3 ft to 4 ft
- Flower color
- Pale lavender funnel shaped flowers borne on tall upright scapes
- Foliage color
- Blue green leaves with crisp white margins and a thick slightly corrugated texture
- Bloom time
- Midsummer
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flower scapes and divide clumps as needed to maintain vigor
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 8
- Wildlife
- Hummingbirds and pollinators attracted to tubular flowers
About this plant
Hosta 'El Nino' produces pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers in midsummer, held on slender scapes that rise above the foliage and bring a delicate accent to the plant. Broad, heart-shaped leaves are blue-green with crisp creamy white margins, creating a refined pattern enhanced by a lightly corrugated texture and pronounced veining. The foliage forms a dense, layered mound that remains attractive throughout the growing season, while the flowers add movement and seasonal interest above the leaves.
Originating through hybrid breeding using species native to eastern Asia, this cultivar reflects selection focused on ornamental foliage and garden performance. It is well suited to woodland gardens, shaded borders, containers, and foundation plantings, where its distinctive leaves provide texture and lasting visual appeal.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens
Companion plants
Epimediums · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Ferns · Lungworts · Wild ginger
Design tip
The long summer show pairs well with plants that peak earlier, keeping one area interesting for months. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.
Where to see it
The plant can be seen at the Oregon Monrovia Trial Garden.
