H. ‘Allegheny River’

Overview

Registered in 2005, Hosta 'Allegheny River' is a small, mound-forming cultivar notable for its medium green leaves with rippled, wavy margins and contrasting lavender to purple petioles. The ovate leaves, measuring 6.5 inches long and 4 inches wide, exhibit slight glossiness on both surfaces and moderate puckering, with nine pairs of veins. The scape rises to 22 inches and is purple half-way up, supporting flowers whose color is not recorded in the registry.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 33 inches (83.8 cm) and height of 18 inches (45.7 cm), 'Allegheny River' forms a compact, moderate-growing mound suited to partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones. Its small size and wavy foliage make it appropriate for rock gardens, woodland edges, or the front of shaded borders, where it pairs well with fine-textured ferns or small sedges. The cultivar is also suitable for container cultivation, provided the pot is of adequate diameter to accommodate its spread.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, protect from slugs and deer, which may damage the foliage.