Hosta plantaginea 'Blue Mouse Ears'
perennial RHS Award

Blue Mouse Ears Hosta

Hosta plantaginea 'Blue Mouse Ears'

The Story

Plant Bio

A miniature, clump-forming hosta prized for its thick, rubbery, heart-shaped to nearly round, blue-gray leaves.

A durable miniature hosta whose thick leaves resist slug damage. Forms a perfectly symmetrical mound, making it excellent for troughs, rock gardens, and container edges.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVivid, lush foliage adds a soft texture to shaded gardens, thriving in low-light conditions.
Practical UsesProvides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators with fragrant flowers and attracts beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

8"

Width

16"

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck young plants into well-prepared, moist soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
  3. Water consistently, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
  5. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall for best growth.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade for vibrant foliage and to prevent leaf scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 💧
  • Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds 🌱
  • Fertilize in early spring and mid-summer for lush growth
  • Divide every few years to rejuvenate clumps

Don't

  • Avoid full sun exposure to prevent leaf scorch ❌
  • Do not let soil dry out completely between watering
  • Avoid over-fertilizing which can cause weak stems
  • Do not disturb roots during the growing season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
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 borderWoodland garden edgeDappled shade accent

Companion Plants

AstilbeFerns HeucheraLigulariaJapanese Forest Grass

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions