H. ‘Claudia’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek, this small-sized variegated hosta resulted from a cross between Hosta sieboldii (pod parent) and Hosta clausa var. normalis (pollen parent). 'Claudia' forms a compact mound of elliptic leaves with medium green, slightly rippled margins and a shiny upper surface, each leaf measuring 14.0 cm (5.5 in) long by 7.6 cm (3 in) wide with five vein pairs and a tapered base.

In the Garden

As a small hosta, 'Claudia' reaches a mature spread of approximately 30–45 cm (12–18 in) and a height of 20–30 cm (8–12 in), making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to full shade with consistent moisture, and pairs well with other small shade perennials such as ferns, Heuchera, or Tiarella. Its compact habit also suits trough gardens or shaded patio pots.

Care Notes

Provide regular water during dry periods, particularly in containers, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Claudia' may be browsed by deer and slugs in typical hosta-growing zones, though its small size may make slug damage less conspicuous than on larger-leaved cultivars.