H. ‘Cosmic Smiles’

Overview

Registered in 2012, *Hosta* 'Cosmic Smiles' is a large cultivar resulting from a cross between *H. 'Cosmic Hippie'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Fudge Ripple'* (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves that are streaked with yellow and white along slightly rippled margins, combined with notably prominent lavender scapes and a twisted leaf tip.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound-like clump reaching 21 inches (53.3 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, and its large size makes it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in shaded beds. The conspicuous lavender scapes, which rise 26 to 29 inches (66.0 to 73.7 cm) above the foliage, provide additional late-season interest. Companion plants should be selected for contrasting foliage texture or color, such as ferns or shade-tolerant perennials with fine or dark leaves.

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 and should be managed through appropriate barriers or deterrents in typical hosta-growing zones.