Shrubs can help to fill the area in the 3 to 10 foot height above ground level. Shrubs play several valuable roles in the garden and can contribute greatly to the beauty and function of the hosta garden.

Of course, shrubs for use in the hosta garden must be adapted to the same environmental conditions. Generally, species that come from the woodlands or are used to growing in the shade of trees work well with hostas. Often these plants have found a niche on the edge of forests or woodlands.

Shrubs are often used as mass or background for the smaller plants such as hostas. They provide a backdrop that help the hosta to show to their best effect. Some shrubs have a horizontal branching habit and this plays off well with the generally rounded form of many hostas. A few of the shrubs have bright fall colored leaves while others have spring or summer flowers followed by colorful fruit.