H. ‘Candy Striper’

Overview

Registered in 2000 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Fortunei Hyacinthina', 'Candy Striper' is a medium-sized variegated cultivar distinguished by its medium green leaves with streaked margins and a slightly shiny upper surface. The plant forms a dense mound reaching 24 inches (61 cm) in height and 48 inches (121.9 cm) in diameter, with moderate growth rate.

In the Garden

'Candy Striper' performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and reaches a mature spread of approximately 4 feet across. Its medium size and rounded leaf base make it suitable for mid-border positions or as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees. It pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials, though its streaked variegation provides sufficient visual interest for solitary planting.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Candy Striper' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, requiring protective measures in areas where these pests are prevalent.