H. ‘Cracker Jack’

Overview

Registered in 2011 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Cracker Crumbs', this small cultivar is visually distinctive for its reversed variegation pattern: medium green leaves with narrow, flat, yellow margins, in contrast to the gold-centered leaves of its parent. The mound-forming plant reaches 6 inches (15.2 cm) in height and 15 inches (38.1 cm) in diameter, with ovate leaves measuring 3 inches (7.6 cm) long and 2 inches (5.1 cm) wide, bearing 4 to 5 vein pairs and a slightly wavy margin.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Cracker Jack' performs best in partial to full shade, suiting typical hosta-growing zones. Its compact dimensions make it appropriate for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container culture. Pair with fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera* to contrast its broad, slightly shiny leaves.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor regularly and employ barriers or repellents as needed.