H. ‘Cherry Tomato’

Overview

Registered in 2008 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Cherry Berry', 'Cherry Tomato' is a miniature cultivar distinguished by its small, lance-shaped leaves with white centers and dark green, flat margins. The foliage measures 3 inches (7.6 cm) long and 0.75 inches (1.9 cm) wide, with three vein pairs, and exhibits a slightly shiny surface on both sides. Red scapes emerge in summer, though flower details are not recorded in the registry.

In the Garden

'Cherry Tomato' forms a compact, upright to mound-like clump reaching 4 inches (10.2 cm) in height and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for miniature hostas, and is well-suited for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders. Its small stature makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation, where its variegated foliage provides contrast alongside other miniature perennials such as small ferns or *Heuchera*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Cherry Tomato' is susceptible to slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones, requiring vigilance or protective measures where these pests are prevalent.