H. ‘Academy Smiles’

Overview

Registered in 2008 from an unregistered streaked seedling of unknown parentage, *Hosta* 'Academy Smiles' is a small cultivar distinguished by its medium green, ovate leaves with yellow to white margins that lighten to white as the season progresses. The leaf blades measure 6 inches (15.2 cm) long and 3.75 inches (9.5 cm) wide, with six vein pairs, a dull upper surface, and a very shiny underside.

In the Garden

Reaching a mature spread of 30 inches (76.2 cm) and a height of 12 inches (30.5 cm), 'Academy Smiles' forms an upright clump with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical of most hostas, and is well suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as edging. Its small size makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation, and it pairs effectively with other small hostas, ferns, or shade-tolerant perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate barriers or repellents.