H. ‘Devil's Poker’

Overview

Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Devil's Poker' is a small variegated cultivar derived from *Hosta* 'Maraschino Cherry' (pod parent) with an unknown pollen parent. Its most distinctive feature is the intense red pigmentation extending from the petioles into the leaf blades and veins, with bright red to red-purple scapes that contrast sharply with the medium green, flat-margined leaves.

In the Garden

'Devil's Poker' forms a compact, upright clump reaching 12 inches (30.5 cm) in both height and diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It is suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container culture, and performs best in partial to dappled shade typical of hosta-growing zones. The pronounced red venation and petioles make it an effective companion for silver-leaved plants or dark-foliaged heucheras.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. As with most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and apply controls as needed.