H. ‘Cotton Candy’
Hosta ‘Cotton Candy’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-7 (Small) |
Overview
A sport of *Hosta* 'Pathfinder', 'Cotton Candy' was registered in 2009 and is distinguished by its unusual early-season leaf variegation, which presents as a misting and mottling of medium green margins. This small, mound-forming cultivar reaches 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height and 22 inches (55.9 cm) in diameter, with broadly ovate leaves measuring 6 inches (15.2 cm) long by 4 inches (10.2 cm) wide, featuring 8 to 9 vein pairs and a rounded base.
In the Garden
'Cotton Candy' performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, where its subtle variegation is most pronounced. Its compact size makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, and it pairs well with small ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials of similar scale. The plant has a slow growth rate and forms a tidy, mound-like habit.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor and manage as needed.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 12 in (30.5 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 22 in (55.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 9 |
| Seasonal colour change | color changes to dark green as the season progresses |
| Notable characteristics | unusual early season misting and mottling |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Pathfinder' — H. ‘Pathfinder’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-7, small size):
- H. ‘Lodikito’ (2013)
- H. ‘Ray of Hope’ (2005)
- H. ‘Stars and Stripes’ (2000)
- H. ‘Charlotte's Web’ (2009)
- H. ‘Coach Jim Fox’ (2009)
- H. ‘Flemish Clouds’ (2009)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #1213