Perennials
Hosta 'Sum and Substance'
Sum and Substance hosta
Also known as: Plantain lily
A giant mound of glossy, thick leaves ranging from chartreuse to gold. Its broad foliage makes a strong garden focal point. Allows more sun than many hostas with adequate water; leave ample growing room.
At a glance
- Sun
- Part shade; tolerates more sun than most hostas with adequate moisture
- Mature size
- 3 ft. foliage tall × 5–6 ft. wide
- Water
- Even moisture; well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 3–9
- Bloom
- Pale lavender; mid–late summer.
Sizes & prices
- #1$16.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
Ask about this plantSelect a section to expand.
Resistance & tolerances
- Drought
- Best with consistent moisture; water during dry spells.
- Wet soil
- Avoid soggy ground, especially in winter.
- Slugs
- Thick leaves offer some resistance, not immunity.
- Deer & rabbits
- Susceptible to browsing. Susceptible to browsing.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Pollinators & wildlife
- Attracts
- Hummingbirds
Keep in mind: Toxic to cats and dogs if eaten.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Dies back for winter.
Growing & care
- Flower height
- 4 ft.
- Soil
- Rich, moisture-retentive soil with good drainage.
- Maintenance
- Watch for slugs.
- Division
- Divide established clumps in early spring.
- Pruning
- Remove damaged leaves as needed. Cut down dead foliage and old flower stalks after autumn dieback.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova · CC BY-SA 4.0
Image notes: Hosta 'Sum and Substance', Agnieszka Kwiecień, Nova / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0. Uncropped photograph.
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.