H. ‘Dear Heart’

Overview

Registered in 1975 by E. Minks, this small hosta results from a cross between *H. nakaiana* (pod parent) and *H.* 'Blue Boy' (pollen parent). 'Dear Heart' is distinguished by its compact mound of blue-green leaves with a heart-like shape, producing a dense, rounded clump that reaches 12 inches (30.5 cm) in both height and diameter.

In the Garden

'Dear Heart' performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage maintains color intensity. At maturity, the plant forms a symmetrical dome approximately 12 inches (30.5 cm) tall and wide, with individual leaves measuring 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) long by 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) wide, bearing 5 to 6 vein pairs. Its small stature makes it suitable for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders, and it pairs well with other small hostas, ferns, or woodland groundcovers. The scape rises to 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs may damage foliage in damp conditions; deer resistance is typical for blue-green hostas in most growing zones.