Blue Mouse Ears Hosta

Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears'

Family: Hosta

Type: Perennial

Other Common Name: Plantain Lily, Funkia

Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ is a charming and miniature variety of hosta, well-known for its small, rounded leaves that resemble mouse ears. The leaves have a unique blue-green hue, adding a touch of whimsy to any garden.

This hosta variety is perfect for those looking to add a delicate, yet striking, element to their garden. It’s particularly well-suited for small spaces and containers.

It thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for areas under trees or in the shadow of buildings. Hardy in zones 3-8, ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ is a resilient and versatile plant.

Needs & Preferences

Hardiness Zone: 2a-4a

Pet Friendly: Yes

Moisture Preference: Average to moist

Sun Needs: Partial shade to shade

Growth

Growth Rate: Slow

Average Height (feet): 1

Average Spread (feet): 1

Average Life Span (years): 10

Form: Over mound

Ornamental

Flower Color: Purple

Flower Shape: Tubular

Bloom Season: In mid summer

Foliage Color: Blue

Foliage Shape: Heart

Products That Feature This Plant

Landscaping Your Yard With Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’

Incorporating Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ into your garden adds a playful and elegant touch. Its compact size and unique foliage are sure to catch the eye.

This hosta is ideal for border fronts, rock gardens, or as an understory plant in shaded areas. It’s also perfect for container gardening, bringing charm to patios and balconies.

Despite its small size, ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance. It’s an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels.

blue_flowers_blue_mouse_ears_hosta_hosta_blue_mouse_ears_plant_by_number

Suitable Garden Styles

Fairy Garden

In a fairy garden, Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' contributes to the magical, miniature landscape. Its small size and whimsical shape fit perfectly with the fairy garden theme.

Rock Garden

For rock gardens, this hosta adds a soft, lush contrast to the hard textures of rocks and stones. Its blue-green leaves enhance the natural beauty of rock settings.

Cottage Garden

In a cottage garden, 'Blue Mouse Ears' brings a touch of elegance and refinement. Its quaint appearance complements the informal, densely planted style of these gardens.

Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ Landscaping Ideas

Plant it along pathways or garden borders for a subtle, yet beautiful, ground cover. Its compact growth habit makes it perfect for defining garden spaces.

Use it in shaded nooks or under tree canopies. Its tolerance for shade makes it an ideal choice for adding interest to often-overlooked garden areas.

Combine it with other shade-loving perennials for a diverse, textured look. Its unique foliage stands out among ferns, heucheras, and other hostas.

Seasonal Interest

Spring

In spring, Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' emerges with its distinct blue-green leaves. The fresh foliage brings a vibrant start to the garden season.

Summer

During summer, it maintains its lush appearance and may produce lavender flowers. The blooms add a subtle charm to the already attractive foliage.

Fall

In the fall, the leaves of 'Blue Mouse Ears' begin to fade and prepare for dormancy. The plant's presence starts to recede, readying for winter.

Winter

In winter, this hosta variety goes dormant, retreating below the surface. While not visible, it's preparing for another year of growth in the spring.

Companion Plants

flowers

Bleeding Heart

Lamprocapnos spectabilis

View plant
flowers

Georgia Peach Coral Bells

Heuchera 'Georgia Peach'

View plant
flowers

Jack Frost Brunnera

Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'

View plant

Planting Tips

Where to Plant

Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ should be planted in areas with partial to full shade. It’s perfect for spaces under trees or on the north side of buildings, where sunlight is filtered.

Light

This hosta variety thrives in partial to full shade, with some morning sun being beneficial. Too much direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves.

Soil

It prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Enriching the soil with organic matter can improve growth and leaf color.

Spacing

Space these plants about 12 inches apart. This spacing allows each hosta to spread out and grow to its full potential without overcrowding.

When to Plant

The ideal time to plant Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ is in the spring or early fall. This timing allows the plants to establish roots without the stress of extreme temperatures.

How to Plant

Dig a hole slightly deeper than the root ball and twice as wide. Place the hosta in the hole, fill with soil, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.

Plant Care Tips

Watering

Water regularly, especially during the first growing season, to establish a deep root system. Hostas prefer consistently moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.

Fertilizing

Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to encourage vibrant foliage and healthy growth.

Pruning

Pruning is typically not necessary. Remove any dead or damaged leaves as needed to maintain the plant’s appearance.

By Season

 

Spring Care

Remove any debris from around the plants in spring and apply a layer of mulch. Begin regular watering and fertilizing as new growth appears.

Summer Care

Keep the soil moist during summer. If the plant produces flowers, deadhead them after blooming to keep the foliage looking its best.

Fall Care

Reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy. Clean up any fallen leaves to prevent fungal diseases.

Winter Care

Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' goes dormant in winter. Ensure it is well-mulched to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Plant Alternatives

flowers

Guacamole Hosta

Hosta 'Guacamole'

View plant
flowers

Patriot Hosta

Hosta 'Patriot'

View plant
flowers

Fire and Ice Hosta

Hosta 'Fire and Ice'

View plant

FAQ

How Big Does Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' Grow?

Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ is a small variety, typically growing to about 6-8 inches in height and spreading up to 12 inches.

Is Hosta 'Blue Mouse Ears' Deer Resistant?

Like most hostas, ‘Blue Mouse Ears’ is not deer resistant. It may require protection in areas where deer are a problem.

Can It Grow in Full Sun?

This hosta variety prefers shade and may not thrive in full sun. Excessive sunlight can lead to leaf burn and faded colors.

Join our blooming community

Sign up below to be the first to learn about exclusive deals, discounts, and new collections!
We’ll also deliver the latest tips, trends, and gardening inspiration straight to your inbox.

You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter!

A big thank you for subscribing to the PBN Design newsletter.

We're thrilled to have you join our community. Get ready for exciting updates, insightful content, and more delivered straight to your inbox.

Stay tuned!

Go back

You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter!

A big thank you for subscribing to the PBN Design newsletter.

We're thrilled to have you join our community. Get ready for exciting updates, insightful content, and more delivered straight to your inbox.

Stay tuned!

Go back