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

Granny's Smile

Hosta x hybrida 'Granny's Smile'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Granny's Smile' is a deciduous perennial with broad, arching leaves that display a variegated pattern of creamy-white margins and lush green centers, complemented by bell-shaped lavender flowers in summer.

This cultivar is prized for its vibrant variegation and compact growth habit, making it an excellent choice for shaded garden borders and container planting.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush greenery and variegated foliage to shaded gardens all year round.

Provides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.

Supports beneficial insects and adds biodiversity to shaded habitats.

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

12 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Regular moisture

Humidity

Average garden humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia and North America

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in well-drained soil.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring for best growth.
Place in partial shade for optimal foliage color.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.

Pro Tip

Mulch helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool during summer heat.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
Divide every 3–4 years to rejuvenate the plant
Apply mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering leading to root rot ❌
Don’t expose to full sun which can scorch leaves
Skip fertilizing 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
Plant
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with variegated foliageSilver‑foliaged hedgeContainer plant for shaded patios

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Granny's Smile questions

What zones can Granny's Smile grow in?

Granny's Smile 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 Granny's Smile deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Granny's Smile, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Granny's Smile bloom?

Granny's Smile typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Granny's Smile need full sun?

Granny's Smile does best in part shade.