H. ‘Tickle Me Pink’

Overview

Registered in 2006, *Hosta* 'Tickle Me Pink' is a medium-sized cultivar derived from a cross between *H*. 'One Man's Treasure' and *H*. 'Squash Casserole'. It is visually distinctive for its green leaves with golden yellow margins, twisted red leaf tips, and reddish streaks that appear in the leaf centers during autumn.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound 8 inches (20.3 cm) tall and 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It is suitable for partial to full shade, as typical for hostas, and performs well in borders or as a groundcover in woodland gardens. The deep red-brown scapes, reaching 16 to 20 inches (40.6 to 50.8 cm) in height, bear flowers with an unusual pattern that adds interest. Companion plants such as ferns or heucheras complement its foliage.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even moisture, especially during dry spells, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. This cultivar is moderately susceptible to slugs and deer, so protective measures may be necessary in typical hosta-growing zones.