H. ‘Toy Soldier’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Blue Cadet' registered in 2000, 'Toy Soldier' is a small, fast-growing cultivar distinguished by its medium blue-green leaves with creamy white margins and a prominent glaucous bloom on both surfaces. The cordate leaves, measuring 4 inches long and 3 inches wide with 6 to 7 vein pairs, form a dense, mound-like plant reaching 10 inches in height and 24 inches in diameter.

In the Garden

'Toy Soldier' performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage and white margins remain most vibrant. With a mature spread of 24 inches and height of 10 inches, it functions well as a groundcover or edging plant in shaded borders, and its compact size makes it suitable for container cultivation. Companion plants include ferns, *Heuchera*, or other small hostas with contrasting leaf colors.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While generally low-maintenance, monitor for slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones.