H. ‘Tucker Valentine’

Overview

Registered in 1991 by R. Stephens, this large cultivar resulted from a cross between *Hosta* 'Herifu' (pod parent) and *Hosta ventricosa* (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its broad, cordate-based leaves with green margins and glossy upper surfaces, borne on a substantial plant reaching 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height.

In the Garden

With its large size—leaves measuring 10 inches (25.4 cm) long by 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) wide, with 7 to 9 vein pairs—'Tucker Valentine' performs best in partial to full shade, typical for variegated hostas. Its substantial clump makes it suitable as a specimen or as part of a mixed shade border, where its glossy green foliage provides textural contrast against finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*. The scape reaches 30 inches (76.2 cm) in height, bearing flowers characteristic of its *H. ventricosa* parentage.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most large-leaved hostas, it may be susceptible to slug and deer damage in garden settings.