Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

299 other cultivars

perennial

Mac the Knife Hosta

Hosta x hybrida 'Mac the Knife'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta is a genus of herbaceous perennials grown for their decorative foliage. They are native to northeast Asia and thrive in shady conditions, producing spikes of lily-like flowers in summer.

A distinctive cultivar featuring a mound of heart-shaped, dark green leaves with very wide, heavily serrated, creamy-yellow margins that lighten to creamy-white as the season progresses. Produces pale lavender flowers in mid-summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, attractive foliage to shaded garden spaces, providing year-round interest.

Helps suppress weeds in shaded borders and retains moisture.

Supports beneficial insects and provides habitat in woodland gardens.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Mid-summer

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded spot with well-drained soil.
Tuck seeds or divide clumps in early spring or fall.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Water consistently, especially in dry spells.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

Divide mature plants every 3-4 years to promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 💧
Mulch to keep roots cool and moist
Fertilize in early spring for vibrant foliage

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
Do not expose to direct, harsh sunlight
Refrain from heavy pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush foliageDamp woodland garden accentGroundcover in shaded areas

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Tiarella

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Mac the Knife Hosta questions

What zones can Mac the Knife Hosta grow in?

Mac the Knife 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 Mac the Knife Hosta deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Mac the Knife Hosta, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Mac the Knife Hosta bloom?

Mac the Knife Hosta typically blooms in mid-summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Mac the Knife Hosta need full sun?

Mac the Knife Hosta does best in part shade.