H. ‘Carl’

Overview

Registered in 1991 by C. Calderara and P. Ruh, *Hosta* 'Carl' is a small-sized cultivar of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its compact, dense mound of medium blue-green leaves with slight undulations along the margins, reaching only 7 inches (17.8 cm) in height and 16 inches (40.6 cm) in diameter.

In the Garden

'Hosta' is well-suited to partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage holds color best. Its small stature makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of a shaded border, where it pairs effectively with other small hostas or fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns or heucheras. The plant’s compact dimensions also make it suitable for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Carl' may be susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate deterrents should be considered in areas where these pests are prevalent.