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

Hosta Mean Gene

Q: What zones can Hosta Mean Gene grow in?

Hosta Mean Gene 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.

Q: Is Hosta Mean Gene deer resistant?

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

Q: When does Hosta Mean Gene bloom?

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

Q: Does Hosta Mean Gene need full sun?

Hosta Mean Gene does best in part shade.

Hosta x hybrida 'Mean Gene'

$24.00

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, vigorous hosta forming a substantial mound of thick, heavily corrugated, blue-green leaves.

'Mean Gene' is prized for its impressive size, slug resistance, and beautiful puckered foliage that holds its blue color well into the summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage year-round, especially in shaded gardens.

Helps retain moisture in soil, reducing watering needs.

Supports local pollinators with its insect-attracting flowers.

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

26 inches

Width

50 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

NH Hostas

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotPlugs

In Stock$24.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Mist cuttings lightly until roots develop, about 4 weeks.
Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure shade and moist, well-drained soil for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool
Divide every 3-4 years for vigorous growth

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Over-fertilize which can cause legginess
Allow soil to dry out completely between watering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded border with lush foliageWoodland garden accentContainer plant for shaded patio

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Mean Gene questions

What zones can Hosta Mean Gene grow in?

Hosta Mean Gene 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 Hosta Mean Gene deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Mean Gene bloom?

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

Does Hosta Mean Gene need full sun?

Hosta Mean Gene does best in part shade.