Garden hybrid

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

298 other cultivars

perennial

Hosta Poker

Hosta x hybrida 'Poker'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Poker' is a deciduous perennial known for its broad, arching leaves and attractive, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in summer, typically in shades of lavender or white.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous growth habit and its striking, upright, spear-like flower stalks that add architectural interest to shaded garden areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage that enhances shaded garden areas.

Suppresses weeds and stabilizes soil in shady spots.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects with its foliage.

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

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moist environments

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Late summer

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded location with well-draining soil.
Tuck plants into prepared holes, ensuring roots are spread out.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring to promote growth.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and avoid direct sun for vibrant foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate temperature
Divide in early spring to maintain health

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Do not let soil dry out completely
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderEvergreen groundcoverTextured border plant

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe Hosta Sieboldiana Heuchera Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Poker questions

What zones can Hosta Poker grow in?

Hosta Poker is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hosta Poker deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Poker bloom?

Hosta Poker typically blooms in late 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 Poker need full sun?

Hosta Poker does best in part shade.