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 Black Swan

Hosta x hybrida 'Black Swan'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'Black Swan' is a perennial shade-loving plant known for its broad, dark purple to blackish foliage and tall flower spikes bearing lavender to purple flowers in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its striking dark foliage that provides dramatic contrast in shaded garden beds and its relatively compact, clump-forming growth habit.

Uses & Benefits:

Hosta Black Swan offers striking variegated foliage that adds elegance to shaded gardens.

Its drought tolerance reduces watering needs, making maintenance easier.

Provides habitat for beneficial insects and attracts pollinators.

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

16 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Northeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Tuck in roots 1-2 inches deep into prepared soil.
Mist cuttings or plant divisions regularly for best growth.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water consistently, especially during dry spells.
Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
Divide every few years to prevent overcrowding

Don't

Avoid overexposure to direct sunlight ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Skip fertilizing during dormant winter months

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 foliageWoodland garden accentElegant shade garden feature

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe Heuchera LigulariaJapanese Painted Fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Black Swan questions

What zones can Hosta Black Swan grow in?

Hosta Black Swan 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 Black Swan deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Black Swan bloom?

Hosta Black Swan 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 Black Swan need full sun?

Hosta Black Swan does best in part shade.