Species
1 other cultivar
The Story
Plant Bio
Hosta gracillima, the 'Small Rock Hosta', is a species native to Japan, characterized by its small stature, narrow, lance-shaped leaves, and late-season flowering. It forms a dense, low-growing mound, making it suitable for rock gardens and border edges.
'Kifukurin Ko Mame' is a miniature cultivar featuring tiny, glossy green, lance-shaped leaves with a distinct, irregular creamy-yellow margin ('Kifukurin'). It produces scapes of lavender, bell-shaped flowers in late summer. The name translates to 'small bean with a yellow edge'.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
4 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
Bloom period
Late Summer – Mid-summer
In flower about 12 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck root ball into prepared soil, ensuring the crown is level with ground.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
- Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Keep soil moist during the growing season, especially in dry periods.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to maintain vigor.
- Remove dead or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Plant in partial shade with rich, well-draining soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide every few years to rejuvenate the plant
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can lead to root rot ❌
- Do not expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
- Skip fertilizing in late fall to prevent disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta questions
What zones can Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta grow in?
Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta bloom?
Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta typically blooms in late summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta need full sun?
Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta does best in part shade.
More Hosta to compare
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Hosta cordifolia 'Blue Mouse Ears'
June Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'June'
Patriot Plantain Lily
Hosta plantaginea 'Patriot'
Fire Island Hosta
Hosta fortunei 'Fire Island'
Empress Wu Hosta
Hosta plantaginea 'Empress Wu'
Hosta Goldrush
Hosta x hybrida 'Goldrush'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Kifukurin Ko Mame Hosta with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.