August Moon Hosta

Hosta 'August Moon'

Nature Hills Nursery

Glowing Gold Foliage Lights up Shade Gardens with Luminous, Heart-Shaped Leaves
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
Grows 2 ft Tall, 1-3 ft Wide
Showy Purple Blooms From Late Summer to Early Fall
Ideal for Mass Planting in Asian Gardens

$30⁹⁴

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Plant Size

#1 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This gold-leafed variety thrives best with about four to six hours of morning sun or consistent bright, filtered light throughout the day. While it tolerates partial shade, too much shade will result in a muted, chartreuse color instead of the vibrant golden yellow it's famous for.
Soil: Aim for a rich, organically-amended soil that drains well but holds consistent moisture. If you have heavy clay, incorporate plenty of coarse compost and a bit of grit to prevent the crowns from rotting. For sandy soil, a generous topdressing of leaf mold or compost will help retain the necessary water and nutrients.

Watering Requirements

During the first establishment year, provide deep, consistent watering whenever the top two inches of soil feel dry to the touch, which helps anchor its roots. Once mature, 'August Moon' is moisture-loving; inconsistent watering will cause the leaf edges to brown and crisp (called desiccation), and may trigger premature dormancy in late summer, resulting in a smaller, stressed clump the following year.

Pruning Tips

The trumpet-shaped lavender flowers bloom on new growth (the scapes), so the only pruning required is deadheading. After the flowers fade, clip the entire flower stalk off near the base of the plant to keep the clump looking tidy. Think of this process like a haircut that redirects the plant's energy away from seed production and back into fortifying the crown and root system for next season.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a well-balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for ornamental plants just as the new 'pips' (shoots) emerge from the ground in early spring. Sprinkle it around the drip line, not directly on the crown, and water it in thoroughly. What you must avoid is applying high-nitrogen fertilizer late in the season, as this encourages tender, new growth that is highly vulnerable to an unexpected early frost.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Groundcover, Flowering, Wet Soils, Container Friendly
Hardiness Zone	3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade, Shade
Height	2 ft
Width	1-3 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Peaty
Growth Rate	Moderate
Growth Habit	Compact
Blooms In	Fall, Summer
Flower Color	Purple
Foliage Color	Green, Variegated
Pet Safety	Toxic to pets
Suitable Space	Indoors, Outdoors
Plant Name	Hosta
Botanical Name	Hosta 'August Moon'
Species	hybrid
Cultivar	August Moon
Class	Asparagales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

The August Moon Hosta (Hosta 'August Moon') has wide, heart-shaped gold-colored foliage with slightly rippled margins, making it very striking! Like the glowing face of the moon, these radiant leaves just shine! They'll light up your shade gardens with their illuminating foliage. The coloration catches all available light and reflects it in a soft sheen!

The white to pale lavender flowers bloom from July to August. Hostas are not known only for their flowers, but mostly for their foliage. Local Pollinators and hummingbirds both will adore these blooms as much as your vase bouquets will too! They are nectar-rich, with an "easy-access" shape, and they bloom at an important time of the season.

With a plant height of 24 inches and a spread of 24-36 inches, August Moon provides bright color in shade with its wonderful foliage. Hardy throughout USDA growing zones 4 to 8, and thrive in full shade, are highly adaptable, and widely versatile!

Planting and Application:

Thoughtfully planned Shade Gardens can help you and your loved ones cultivate a rewarding hobby as serene nature watchers! You'll definitely want to plan a seating area near your shade garden to enjoy your space. Garden design professionals look for plants that give visual interest at every layer. Use August Moon Hosta near the edge of the planting to polish the look. Pair these bold foliage plants with radiant Coral Bells or Ferns. It makes a wonderful complement to darker, larger options, such as Liberty Hosta.

Grow this spectacular vivid variety as a groundcover, or use them as specimens in large outdoor containers. Because the flowers are held above the foliage on long, slender scapes...they sway and nod in summer breezes. This welcome sense of motion helps cool you down on those long afternoons. These low-care perennials are one of the most popular for landscape uses. A great choice for any beginner gardener!

Striking Green-Gold Heart-Shaped Foliage
White to Purple Blooms in Mid-Summer
Blooms are Held High in Summer
Pollinators & Hummingbirds Relish the Nectar
Edging Plants and Filler, Shaded Area Specimens & Radiant Accents

#ProPlantTips for Care:

August Moon is an herbaceous Perennial that needs to be planted in a full shade area in any moist, well-drained area. The morning sun is tolerable and will help to intensify the leaf colors of this plant, but the hot afternoon sun is usually deadly to Hostas! It grows best in highly organic soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Sandy loam is better than clay because it provides more aeration for the roots. Almost completely pest and carefree, the only thing you'll want to keep an eye out for are slugs. Provide moderate yet consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Hosta appreciates a 3-4 inch thick layer of arborist mulch chips to help hold in moisture. Deadhead as blooms fade, and prune back the foliage once it dies back in the autumn.

Glows in Full Shade
Easy to Grow In A Wide Variety of Soil
Moderate Moisture Needs
Long-Lived & Low-Maintenance
Textured Foliage Resists Pests & Slugs
Very Cold Hardy & Heat Tolerant
Divide Every 3-5 Years

You will be very pleased with the lovely foliage and easy care of August Moon Hosta! Hurry and order your own today at Nature Hills while they're in stock!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature height and spread of August Moon Hosta?

August Moon Hosta reaches 24 inches tall with a spread of 24-36 inches at maturity. This compact size makes it perfect for edging shade gardens or growing in large containers. Plan for adequate spacing to showcase its golden foliage without crowding nearby plants.

What type of soil is best for planting August Moon Hosta?

August Moon Hosta thrives in well-draining, organic-rich soil with consistent moisture. These hardy perennials (zones 4-8) adapt to various soil types but perform best in slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amend heavy clay with compost for better drainage, available at naturehills.com.

How often should I water August Moon Hosta?

August Moon Hosta needs consistent moisture but not waterlogged soil. Water deeply 1-2 times per week, providing about 1 inch total including rainfall. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches down - water when it feels dry at that depth.

Is August Moon Hosta tolerant of morning sun or full shade?

August Moon Hosta thrives in full shade and is highly adaptable to various shade conditions. While primarily a shade plant, it can tolerate some morning sun in cooler zones 4-6. Avoid hot afternoon sun which can scorch the golden foliage.

How do I care for August Moon Hosta, including fertilizing?

August Moon Hosta thrives in full shade across zones 4-8 with minimal care requirements. Water regularly during dry spells and apply balanced fertilizer in early spring. This low-maintenance perennial available at naturehills.com needs little else beyond occasional division every 3-4 years.

Is August Moon Hosta deer or rabbit resistant?

Hostas, including August Moon, are generally not deer or rabbit resistant and are often considered preferred food sources by these animals. The tender, succulent foliage that makes this variety so attractive in zones 4-8 also makes it appealing to wildlife. Consider protective fencing or repellent sprays if deer or rabbits are common in your area.

Will August Moon Hosta grow well in my zone 5/6/7/8 garden?

August Moon Hosta is hardy in USDA zones 4-8, so it will thrive in your zone 5, 6, 7, or 8 garden. This reliable perennial reaches 24 inches tall with a 24-36 inch spread and performs best in shade locations. Plant it as groundcover or use in containers for bright golden foliage color.

What is the flower color and bloom time for August Moon Hosta?

August Moon Hosta produces white to pale lavender flowers from July to August. The nectar-rich blooms are held high above the foliage on slender stems that sway gracefully in summer breezes. Position near a seating area to enjoy both the luminous foliage and pollinator activity.

August Moon Hosta

Hosta 'August Moon'