The Memphis Botanic Gardens “Hosta Trail” is certified as an

 American Hosta Society National Display Garden. 

The Memphis Botanic Gardens “Hosta Trail” was certified by the American Hosta Society in 2006  as the 15^th AHS National Display Garden in the United States.  The Hosta Trail is only the second garden in the south recognized by the AHS with this honor.  

The MBG Hosta Trail was started in 1999 with the donation of plants by MSHS members and the dedication of an expandable hosta area by MBG.  Over the years, the hosta society has added many varieties and expanded beds that today have 180 hosta varieties, of which there are multiple plants. Presently, there are more than 400 hostas, accompanied by many shade companions, such as native azaleas, heucheras, ferns and sedums.  In addition to the five main beds, there is a stacked-rock raised bed for miniature hostas and an entrance bed with the society’s theme plaque, “Hostas From Around the Globe.”  All the beds in the Hosta Trail are connected by a stone pathway.   

The beds have been organized by the MSHS with an educational theme based upon the geographical area where the hosta was developed or discovered.  Following appropriate research to identify the origin and introduction of each plant , the plants have been placed in their proper bed based on the theme, “Hostas From Around the Globe”.   The beds are identified with signage according to each collection: Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western, International/ Species and Miniature. Botanically correct signage and labels lists the cultivar name along with the parentage/sport or species 

The MSHS, with the support of the MBG, has entered into an endowment fund program as part of the Community Foundation of Greater Memphis to provide for the permanent care and lifetime maintenance of the Hosta Trail.  Contributions to this fund are tax-deductible. 

The MBG Hosta Trail and other gardens may be visited daily from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m..  There is an admission fee for non-members.