H. ‘American Sweetheart’

Overview

Registered in 2002 as a sport of Hosta 'Sea Thunder', 'American Sweetheart' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its green leaves with broad creamy white margins. The leaves are notably thicker and larger than those of its parent, suggesting a polyploid origin, and the plant produces white scapes bearing pale flowers.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms an upright, slow-growing clump reaching approximately 24 inches (61 cm) in diameter and 20 inches (51 cm) in height. The broadly ovate, flat leaves measure 9 inches (23 cm) long by 7 inches (18 cm) wide, with 10 to 11 pairs of veins; the leaf surface is dull above and slightly shiny beneath. 'American Sweetheart' performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for hostas, and its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or shaded containers. Companion plants might include ferns, astilbes, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate deterrents may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.