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 Margin of Error

Hosta x hybrida 'Margin of Error'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Margin of Error' is a deciduous perennial known for its broad, lush foliage with distinctive variegation and elegant, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in summer, typically in shades of lavender or white.

This cultivar is celebrated for its striking variegated leaf pattern with a unique margin, adding a dramatic visual appeal to shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Adds lush, textured foliage to shaded gardens with minimal maintenance.

Suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture in shaded areas.

Provides ground cover that supports beneficial insects and soil health.

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

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers high humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

Bloom period

Early summer – Mid-summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck roots into well-draining, moist soil
Mist cuttings regularly for root development
Plant in partial shade for best foliage color
Water consistently during growing season
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Divide every 3-4 years in early spring

Pro Tip

Keep soil moist and avoid direct afternoon sun for vibrant leaves

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture
Divide to prevent overcrowding
Plant in partial shade for best foliage

Don't

Avoid full sun exposure ❌
Don't let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing
Don't plant in poorly drained areas

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 textured foliageSilver‑foliaged hedgeVanilla‑scented groundcover

Companion Plants

ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese forest grass Brunnera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Margin of Error questions

What zones can Hosta Margin of Error grow in?

Hosta Margin of Error 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 Margin of Error deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Margin of Error bloom?

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

Does Hosta Margin of Error need full sun?

Hosta Margin of Error does best in part shade.