H. ‘Artist's Palette’

Overview

Registered in 1986 by Kuk's Forest Nursery, 'Artist's Palette' is a miniature hosta derived from a hybrid of *H.* 'Neat Splash'. Its distinguishing feature is variegated foliage with streaked margins, glossy upper and lower leaf surfaces, and a compact habit reaching only 3 inches (7.6 cm) in height and 4 inches (10.2 cm) in diameter.

In the Garden

This diminutive cultivar is well-suited to shaded or partially shaded positions in the garden, where its small size makes it ideal for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of a border. Mature plants form a tight clump of leaves measuring 2.25 inches (5.7 cm) long and 0.75 inches (1.9 cm) wide, with three vein pairs per leaf. Its miniature stature recommends it for container cultivation, where it pairs effectively with other small-scale shade perennials such as miniature ferns or *Heuchera*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Artist's Palette' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and apply controls as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.