Hosta ‘June’ short overview
Hosta 'June' is a compact, award-winning perennial grown chiefly for its thick, beautifully variegated foliage. Heart-shaped leaves emerge gold to chartreuse in the center with blue-green margins, forming a neat mound that brightens partial- to full-shade borders. Lavender flowers rise on slender scapes in midsummer. Give it rich, moisture-retentive soil, regular summer watering, and protection from deer and emerging slugs.
Taxonomic classification
Hosta ‘June’ care guide
Light and placement
Grow in partial shade to full shade, ideally with bright morning or filtered light and protection from intense afternoon sun. Some light helps maintain the gold-centered variegation, but hot exposure can scorch the leaves. Too little light may reduce color contrast and produce looser growth; harsh sun causes bleached patches, brown edges, or wilting.
Watering and humidity
Water deeply when the upper inch of soil begins to dry, directing water to the root zone rather than over the leaves. Maintain even moisture through summer, especially during establishment, container culture, and hot weather. Mulch lightly to reduce evaporation, but keep mulch away from the crown. Supplemental humidity is generally unnecessary outdoors.
Soil and growing medium
Use fertile, humus-rich loam that holds consistent moisture without remaining waterlogged. A well-drained garden soil amended with compost suits this cultivar well. Hostas generally tolerate a mildly acidic to neutral soil reaction; avoid compacted ground and sites that dry rapidly.
Feeding
Top-dress with compost in spring or apply a balanced slow-release perennial fertilizer as growth starts, following the product label. Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding, which can produce soft foliage and encourage pest problems. Stop routine fertilization by late summer so plants can enter dormancy naturally.
Growth and habit
This cultivar forms a tidy, slowly enlarging crown of overlapping leaves and becomes more substantial over several seasons. Its foliage is the primary ornamental feature. Divide only when necessary, because undisturbed clumps develop better visual density and establishment.
Planting and repotting
Plant in spring or early fall, setting the crown at the same depth as it was previously grown and spreading the roots through loosened soil. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the root zone evenly moist during establishment. Allow about 20 inches between plants for a mature clump.
Repot container-grown plants in spring as new shoots begin to emerge, moving up one container size when roots fill the pot. Divide and refresh the mix at the same time if the crown has become congested. Use a moisture-retentive but freely draining potting mix and ensure the container has drainage holes.
Propagation and pruning
Propagation
Division in spring, just as shoots emerge, or in early fall is the dependable method for preserving the cultivar. Separate crowns with a sharp, clean knife, ensuring each division has viable buds and roots. Seed will not reliably reproduce the named foliage pattern.
Pruning
Cut flower scapes after flowering if seed production is not wanted. Remove yellow or frost-killed foliage after dormancy in late fall or early spring. Avoid cutting healthy leaves during the growing season, since they supply energy to the crown.
Overwintering
Leave the dormant crown outdoors in USDA Zones 3–8. After frost blackens the foliage, remove it and apply a light mulch in exposed sites, especially during the first winter or where freeze-thaw cycles are severe. Containers are more vulnerable to root freezing and should be sheltered or insulated.
Uses
Use as a specimen, edging plant, mass planting, woodland-border perennial, or container accent. Its durable variegated foliage is particularly effective beside ferns, heucheras, astilbes, and other shade plants. It is ornamental rather than a food crop, and its foliage should not be eaten by pets.
Appearance
The plant forms a neat mound of thick, heart-shaped leaves with strong substance and contrasting gold-to-chartreuse centers surrounded by blue-green margins. The foliage has a substantial texture and remains the main identification feature. Slender scapes rise above the leaves in summer and carry lavender flower clusters.
Flowering
Upright scapes carry loose clusters of lavender, lily-like flowers above the foliage in midsummer. The flowers are secondary to the foliage display, but add vertical interest and may produce seed if pollinated. Remove spent scapes for tidiness, or leave them if seed development is desired.
Pollination and visitors
Hosta flowers can be visited by bees and bumblebees, but cultivar-specific visitor records for ‘June’ are limited. Flowers are insect-pollinated rather than wind-pollinated. Do not confuse flower visitation with human allergy risk.
Hosta 'June' photos
Click any photo for a larger view. Source, author and license are shown separately.
Diseases and pests
Diseases
Reduce crown and leaf disease risk by planting in well-drained soil, watering at the base, and removing yellowing or collapsed foliage. Watch for crown rot in persistently wet ground and foliar diseases during prolonged cool, humid weather. Sanitize tools when dividing plants and clear dead leaves in fall.
Pests
Slugs and snails are the main routine pests, especially as shoots emerge in spring. Inspect at night or after rain, remove hiding places, and use barriers or labeled slug controls when needed. Deer and rabbits may browse foliage. Healthy plants with adequate moisture and air circulation usually recover from minor feeding damage.
Related diseases and pests
Only Plant Doctor profiles whose host data indicate this plant may be affected are shown here.
DiseaseImpatiens necrotic spot virus diseaseImpatiens necrotic spot orthotospovirus
DiseaseSouthern blightAthelia rolfsii
PestStrawberry foliar nematodeAphelenchoides fragariae
Environmental stressExcess light stress
Environmental stressLeaf sunburn
DiseasePhytophthora cactorum crown, collar, root and fruit rotPhytophthora cactorum
DiseasePhytophthora root and crown rotPhytophthora nicotianae
DiseaseAster yellows‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’
Toxicity and pollen
Hostas contain saponins and are listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, or depression. Keep pets from chewing leaves, flowers, or other plant parts; seek veterinary advice after suspected ingestion. No cultivar-specific human toxicity evidence was located.
- Typical season
- Typically July–August in the United States
- Pollination / pollen
- Insect-borne pollen
Hosta pollen is associated with insect-pollinated flowers and is not usually considered a major airborne pollen source. Exposure may still occur locally during bloom, especially when flowers are handled or abundant. People with known pollen sensitivities should use ordinary garden precautions.
Native habitat
Hostas are cultivated shade perennials with ancestry in temperate East Asian woodland environments. They prefer humus-rich soils, filtered light, reliable moisture, and cooler root conditions. In gardens, ‘June’ performs well in woodland-style beds and sheltered borders rather than hot, drought-prone sites.
Interesting fact
‘June’ was named American Hosta Growers Association Hosta of the Year for 2001. It is associated with the Tardiana Group and is widely described as a mutation or sport of ‘Halcyon’. Its thick leaves are often less vulnerable to slug damage than thinner-leaved hostas, although no hosta is completely slug-proof.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The most relevant questions about this plant, with short and direct answers.
🌱Quick care
How do you care for Hosta 'June'?⌄
Grow Hosta 'June' in partial shade to shade, humus-rich well-drained soil, and consistent moisture. Protect it from hot afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage and reduce its blue-green edge.
Is Hosta 'June' easy to grow?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' is generally an easy-care, long-lived perennial when planted in moist, organic soil and protected from harsh afternoon sun. Its main routine needs are watering, occasional cleanup, and monitoring for slugs and deer.
How big does Hosta 'June' get?⌄
Hosta 'June' typically forms a medium mound about 15 inches tall and 20 inches wide, with flower scapes reaching roughly 20 inches. Mature size can vary with climate, soil, moisture, and growing conditions.
What does Hosta 'June' look like?⌄
Hosta 'June' forms a rounded mound of substantial, variegated leaves with a golden to chartreuse center and blue-green margins. The foliage is the plant’s main ornamental feature, while lavender flowers appear on upright scapes in summer.
🌤️Environment and placement
What light does Hosta 'June' need?⌄
Hosta 'June' grows best in partial shade to shade, especially with filtered or dappled light. A few hours of gentle morning sun can intensify the yellow center, but hot afternoon sun may cause leaf scorch.
Can Hosta 'June' grow in full shade?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' can grow in full shade, although very deep shade may produce slower growth and less pronounced golden coloring. Bright filtered shade or gentle morning light usually gives the best balance of color and vigor.
Can Hosta 'June' tolerate morning sun?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' usually tolerates gentle morning sun and may develop a brighter yellow center in that exposure. Avoid intense afternoon sun, particularly in hot regions or when the soil is allowed to dry.
Can Hosta 'June' grow in containers?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' can grow well in a container with drainage holes and moisture-retentive potting mix. Choose a pot at least 12 to 16 inches wide, keep it evenly watered, and provide shade from hot afternoon sun.
What USDA hardiness zones are suitable for Hosta 'June'?⌄
Hosta 'June' is reported as hardy across approximately USDA Zones 3 through 9, making it suitable for much of the United States. In warmer zones, deeper shade and dependable summer moisture help prevent leaf scorch.
What soil is best for Hosta 'June'?⌄
The best soil for Hosta 'June' is fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive loam that drains excess water. Improve poor soil with compost or other organic matter, but avoid permanently soggy ground, especially in winter.
💧Care and problems
How often should you water Hosta 'June'?⌄
Water Hosta 'June' whenever the top inch of soil begins to dry, providing enough moisture to keep the root zone consistently damp but not waterlogged. Plants in containers, sandy soil, or hot climates may need more frequent watering.
Why are the leaves of my Hosta 'June' turning brown?⌄
Brown leaf edges on Hosta 'June' are commonly caused by drought, hot afternoon sun, wind, or excessive fertilizer. Check soil moisture, move container plants to brighter shade, and water deeply during dry spells.
How do you protect Hosta 'June' from slugs?⌄
Reduce slug damage by watering at the soil line, removing hiding places, keeping debris away from the crown, and using a labeled slug control product when needed. Hosta 'June' has relatively substantial leaves, but it is not completely slug-proof.
Do deer eat Hosta 'June'?⌄
Yes, deer commonly browse Hosta 'June' because hostas are highly palatable to them. Use fencing, deer repellents, or a protected planting area if deer are active in your garden.
Does Hosta 'June' die back in winter?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' is a deciduous herbaceous perennial that normally dies back after hard frost and returns from dormant crowns in spring. Remove collapsed foliage after it freezes or in late winter before new shoots emerge.
Does Hosta 'June' need fertilizer?⌄
Hosta 'June' usually needs little fertilizer when grown in fertile soil enriched with compost. If growth is weak, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring according to the product label, and avoid heavy late-season feeding.
🪴Planting and repotting
When is the best time to plant Hosta 'June'?⌄
Plant Hosta 'June' in spring or early fall, when temperatures are moderate and soil moisture is easier to maintain. Water thoroughly after planting and continue regular watering until the root system is established.
How far apart should Hosta 'June' be planted?⌄
Space Hosta 'June' about 20 inches apart for a natural display based on its typical mature spread. For faster visual coverage, plants can be placed somewhat closer, but overcrowding may reduce airflow and increase competition for moisture.
How deep should Hosta 'June' be planted?⌄
Plant Hosta 'June' with the crown at soil level, keeping the buds or growing points just at or slightly above the surrounding soil. Planting the crown too deeply can encourage rot and delay spring emergence.
Can Hosta 'June' be planted under trees?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' can grow under trees if it receives filtered shade and enough water. Avoid planting directly against thirsty tree roots when possible, and irrigate during dry periods because tree roots can quickly deplete soil moisture.
Can Hosta 'June' grow in wet soil?⌄
Hosta 'June' prefers consistently moist soil but does not tolerate prolonged waterlogging. Improve drainage before planting, especially in heavy clay or areas that remain saturated after rain, because wet winter soil can damage the crown and roots.
✂️Propagation and pruning
How do you propagate Hosta 'June'?⌄
The most reliable home method is division in early spring as shoots emerge or in early fall. Separate the rhizomatous crown into sections with roots and at least one healthy growing point, then replant them at the original depth.
Can Hosta 'June' be grown from seed?⌄
Hosta 'June' can produce seed, but seedlings usually do not come true to the named cultivar because hostas cross-pollinate readily. Divide an established plant or obtain properly propagated stock when you need an identical replacement.
When should Hosta 'June' be divided?⌄
Divide Hosta 'June' in early spring as the eyes emerge or in early fall after the hottest weather has passed. Division is not usually necessary every year; wait until the clump is large or you want additional plants.
Should Hosta 'June' be pruned?⌄
Hosta 'June' does not require routine pruning. Remove damaged or faded leaves during the growing season, and cut back the dead foliage after frost or before new growth appears in spring.
⚠️Toxicity and safety
Is Hosta 'June' toxic to dogs?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' is toxic to dogs if eaten because hostas contain saponins. Ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, or depression; contact a veterinarian or a pet poison service if your dog has eaten the plant.
Is Hosta 'June' toxic to cats?⌄
Yes, Hosta 'June' is toxic to cats if ingested because it is a hosta cultivar. Keep cats from chewing the leaves or flowers, and contact a veterinarian promptly if ingestion is suspected, especially if vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy develops.
🌸Flowering and special interest
When does Hosta 'June' bloom?⌄
Hosta 'June' generally blooms in mid to late summer, often around July or August depending on local conditions. The flowers are lavender and rise above the foliage on upright scapes.
Are the flowers of Hosta 'June' fragrant?⌄
Hosta 'June' is grown mainly for its variegated foliage, and its lavender flowers are not generally considered strongly fragrant. Fragrance is more notable in certain other hostas, especially those related to Hosta plantaginea.
Should you cut off Hosta 'June' flower stalks?⌄
Cut off Hosta 'June' flower stalks after flowering if you prefer a tidier appearance or want the plant’s energy directed toward foliage. Leaving them in place is also harmless, and the flowers can be useful in arrangements.
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