H. ‘Christmas Cookies’

Overview

Registered in 2003 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Night Before Christmas', 'Christmas Cookies' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its unusually broad white leaf centers bordered by dark green margins. The leaves are ovate with rounded bases and lightly wavy edges, measuring 9 inches (22.9 cm) long and 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide, with 9 to 10 pairs of veins; the white central area is substantially wider than that of its parent, while the dark green margin remains flat and approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wide. The leaf surface is dull on top with a thin glaucous bloom beneath.

In the Garden

'Christmas Cookies' forms a slow-growing, mound-like clump reaching 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter at maturity. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-green hostas, and benefits from protection from afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch on the white centers. Its medium size and compact habit suit it for border fronts, woodland gardens, or shaded containers, where it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor regularly and use appropriate controls if needed.