H. ‘Commander’

Overview

Registered in 2010, *Hosta* 'Commander' is a medium-sized cultivar derived from a cross between *H. 'Neat Splash'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Elatior'* (pollen parent). It forms a dense, semi-upright mound of blue-green leaves with broad, creamy white margins, the foliage bearing a dull upper surface and a glaucous bloom beneath.

In the Garden

'Commander' reaches a mature spread of approximately 45 inches (114 cm) and a height of 24 inches (61 cm), with scapes rising 20 to 30 inches (51 to 76 cm) above the foliage. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical of most hostas, and its moderate growth rate suits it for mixed shade borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen in a shaded bed. The white-margined leaves provide contrast when paired with dark-leaved perennials such as *Heuchera* or ferns.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in dry spells, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. 'Commander' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, as are most hostas, so protective measures may be warranted in areas with high pest pressure.