Abstract: The growth and photosynthesis characteristics of two kinds of colorful Hosta were studied under light transmittance of 100%,50%,30%,10%.Results indicated that curves of diurnal variation in P_n,G_s,T_r and C_i had double-peaks; appropriate shade could increase the leaves length,width,plant height and leaf area of the two kinds of colorful Hosta, also the above- and below-ground biomass were increased. Under the condition of 30% light transmittance, H. ‘Sieboldiana Gold’ grew best; under the condition of 50% light transmission, H.‘Gold Edger’was more favorable to the dry matter accumulation,there were significant differences (p<0.05)between the above two treatment and the full light treatment. It was thus clear that 30% and 50% light treatment were the best light intensity that could improve the utilization of light and increased the dry matter accumulation of H. ‘Sieboldiana Gold ’and H.‘Gold Edger’, respectively.