H. ‘Brave Amherst’

Overview

Registered in 1993, 'Brave Amherst' is a medium-sized hosta cultivar of unknown breeder, derived from a cross between H. 'Christmas Tree' (pod parent) and H. 'Reversed' (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with creamy white margins, a color combination that reverses the typical dark-centered, light-margined pattern of its pod parent.

In the Garden

'Brave Amherst' reaches a mature size of 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 25 inches (63.5 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border positions in shade to partial shade. Its broad, cordate leaves with slightly rippled margins provide textural contrast alongside finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or Heuchera. It is not typically recommended for container cultivation due to its medium size.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in dry spells, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.