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 Tick Tock

Hosta x hybrida 'Tick Tock'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta 'Tick Tock' is a perennial shade-loving plant with broad, heart-shaped, blue-green leaves with yellow margins and spikes of lavender, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in summer.

This cultivar is distinguished by its variegated foliage featuring creamy-white margins that provide a vibrant contrast, along with its compact growth habit ideal for container planting.

Uses & Benefits:

Variegated leaves add visual interest year-round, especially in shaded gardens.

Provides ground cover that suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture.

Supports beneficial insects and adds biodiversity to shaded habitats.

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

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Northeast Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck dormant rhizomes 2 inches deep in rich, well-drained soil.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Place in partial shade for optimal growth.
Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor.

Pro Tip

Ensure soil remains consistently moist for healthy foliage development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

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

Don't

Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil dry out completely
Refrain from using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in season

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 variegated foliageCool, calming groundcoverUnderstory plant in woodland gardens

Companion Plants

AstilbeFern varieties Heuchera LigulariaJapanese painted fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta Tick Tock questions

What zones can Hosta Tick Tock grow in?

Hosta Tick Tock 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 Tick Tock deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta Tick Tock bloom?

Hosta Tick Tock 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 Tick Tock need full sun?

Hosta Tick Tock does best in part shade.