H. ‘Black Jack Chew’

Overview

Registered in 2005, *Hosta* 'Black Jack Chew' is a small-sized sport of *Hosta* 'Mutant Ninja' distinguished by its very dark green, heavily rippled leaf margins and variegated foliage. The ovate leaves measure 7 inches (17.8 cm) long by 4 inches (10.2 cm) wide, with seven vein pairs, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a very shiny underside; the leaf base is rounded and the blade is lightly folded.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter and a height of 24 inches (61.0 cm), 'Black Jack Chew' forms a compact, mound-like clump with moderate growth. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the dark green margins contrast effectively with lighter leaf centers. Suitable for small borders, rock gardens, or container cultivation, it pairs well with fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable for this cultivar in typical hosta-growing zones.