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 On with the Show

Hosta x hybrida 'On with the Show'

The Story

Plant Bio

Hosta x hybrida 'On with the Show' is a deciduous perennial known for its lush, broad foliage with variegated green and white leaves. It produces tall flower spikes with lavender blooms, adding elegance to shaded gardens.

This cultivar is distinguished by its vibrant, showy variegation and strong, upright flower stems that create a striking contrast against the foliage, making it a standout in ornamental shade plantings.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, textured foliage year-round, with attractive flowers in mid-summer, enhancing shaded garden beds.

Drought-tolerant once established, reduces garden maintenance, and suppresses weeds with groundcover growth.

Supports pollinators and beneficial insects, while deer and rabbit resistant.

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

18 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

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 seeds or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Mist cuttings lightly every few days to encourage rooting.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3–4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, humus-rich soil with partial shade for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Divide clumps every few years to promote healthy growth
Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer

Don't

Avoid full sun which can scorch leaves ❌
Don’t let soil stay soggy to prevent root rot
Refrain from over-fertilizing to avoid leaf burn
Don’t disturb plants during late fall or winter

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
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 foundation planting

Companion Plants

Ferns Astilbe HeucheraJapanese painted fern Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hosta On with the Show questions

What zones can Hosta On with the Show grow in?

Hosta On with the Show 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 On with the Show deer resistant?

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

When does Hosta On with the Show bloom?

Hosta On with the Show 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 On with the Show need full sun?

Hosta On with the Show does best in part shade.