H. ‘Austin Dickinson’

Overview

Registered in 1992, *Hosta* 'Austin Dickinson' is a medium-sized hybrid derived from a cross between *H. 'Resonance'* (pod parent) and *H. plantaginea* (pollen parent). The cultivar is visually distinguished by its medium green, cordate leaves with a broad, pure white margin approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, and its relatively large, slightly shiny leaf blades.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a clump 21 inches (53.3 cm) in diameter and 16 inches (40.6 cm) tall, with individual leaves reaching 8 inches (20.3 cm) long and 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide. It is suited to partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones, where its white-margined foliage provides contrast against darker-leaved perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*. The light green scapes rise to 29 inches (73.7 cm) and bear lavender flowers, typical of its *H. plantaginea* parentage.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor regularly and take protective measures if necessary.