H. ‘Elsley’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, *Hosta* 'Elsley' is a small-sized hosta cultivar of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its medium green, elliptic leaves with narrow white margins (0.6 cm wide) that are slightly rippled, and its compact, mound-like growth habit.

In the Garden

'Elsley' forms a tidy mound 15 inches (38.1 cm) tall and 29 inches (73.7 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as an edging plant. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical for hostas, and pairs well with small ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials. Its small size also makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Elsley' may be susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures are advisable in areas where these pests are prevalent.