H. ‘Cartwheels’

Overview

Registered in 2002 by P. & J. Ruh, *Hosta* 'Cartwheels' is a medium-sized sport distinguished by its blue-green leaves with greenish-yellow margins. The leaf blades are elliptic with cordate bases, dull on both surfaces, and feature moderately wavy, lightly corrugated margins that range from 0.25 to 0.75 inches (0.6–1.9 cm) in width. The plant forms an open, upright mound with a rounded tip, and its scapes rise 16 to 18.5 inches (40.6–47.0 cm) bearing blue-green flowers.

In the Garden

'Cartwheels' reaches approximately 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 23 inches (58.4 cm) in diameter, with a notably slow growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the blue-green leaf centers contrast well with the gold margins. This cultivar suits mixed shade borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen in small groupings; its medium size also makes it appropriate for container cultivation. Companion plants include ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials with contrasting foliage textures.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard hosta precautions apply: protect from slugs and deer in typical hosta-growing zones.