H. ‘Bette Davis Eyes’
Hosta ‘Bette Davis Eyes’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by K. Vaughn.
| Year registered | 1987 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | K. Vaughn |
| Section class | IV-1 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1987 by K. Vaughn, this small hosta cultivar resulted from a cross between a sibling to Hosta 'Summer Fragrance' (pod parent) and Hosta 'Christmas Tree' (pollen parent). Its distinguishing features include variegated foliage with dark green margins exhibiting slight undulations, and a compact, mounded growth habit.
In the Garden
Mature plants reach approximately 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in diameter, with leaves 8 inches (20.3 cm) long and 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide bearing 4 to 7 vein pairs. This small hosta performs best in partial to full shade, suiting it for front-of-border positions, rock gardens, or container culture. It pairs well with other small shade perennials such as heucheras, ferns, or dwarf astilbes.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, requiring protective measures where these pests are prevalent.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 18 in (45.7 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Leaf width | 3 in (7.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 7 |
| Leaf | dark green slight undulations margins |
| Flower scape height | 25 in (63.5 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: sibling to H. 'Summer Fragrance' — H. ‘Summer Fragrance’
- Pollen parent: H. 'Christmas Tree' — H. ‘Christmas Tree’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-1, small size):
- H. ‘Spartan Gem’ (1989)
- H. ‘Nicola’ (1984)
- H. ‘Sweet Winifred’ (1984)
- H. ‘Pearl Lake’ (1982)
- H. ‘Temple Bells’ (1992)
- H. ‘Tall Twister’ (1973)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #471. How we check this data.