H. ‘Akarana’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, 'Akarana' is a small blue-green hosta with white margins, believed to be a hybrid of *Hosta nakaiana*. Its leaves are ovate with rounded bases, dull on the upper surface and bearing a white, shiny glaucous bloom beneath; the medium green margins are slightly rippled. The plant forms a low mound and produces dense flower clusters on medium green scapes.

In the Garden

'Akarana' reaches 7 inches (17.8 cm) in height and spreads to 15 inches (38.1 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container culture. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for blue-leaved hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or small sedges. Its compact size and low mound habit also suit troughs or small mixed containers.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even moisture, especially during dry periods; apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may feed on the foliage, so monitoring and appropriate barriers are recommended in typical hosta-growing zones.