Hosta 'Honeybells': Fragrant Late-Blooming Green Hosta

Hosta 'Honeybells': The Sweet-Scented Late Summer Bloomer

Hosta 'Honeybells', hybridized by Cummings-AHS and introduced in 1986, is prized for its intensely fragrant, pale lavender flowers that bloom in late summer—weeks after most hostas have finished. Combined with its glossy, medium-green foliage and vigorous growth, it's a sensory standout.

Late-Season Fragrance

The flowers are the star: large, pale lavender, bell-shaped (hence "Honeybells"), and intensely sweetly fragrant—reminiscent of honeysuckle or freesia. They appear in late August to September on 3–4 foot scapes, extending the hosta bloom season. The fragrance is strongest in evening, making it ideal near patios and windows.

The foliage is attractive but not variegated: glossy, medium green, ovate leaves forming a mound 2 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide. Good substance.

Reliable and Fragrant

'Honeybells' is vigorous, easy to grow, and tolerant of a range of conditions (morning sun to shade). Rich, moist soil. Hardy in USDA zones 3–9. The late bloom and fragrance make it a unique addition to the hosta palette.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Liliaceae
• Genus: Hosta
• Cultivar: 'Honeybells'
• Hybridizer: Cummings-AHS
• Introduced: 1986

Evening Garden Star

Plant 'Honeybells' where its fragrance can be enjoyed—near seating areas, under bedroom windows, along evening paths. The late bloom extends garden interest into September. A hosta that proves flowers can be as compelling as foliage.