H. ‘Emma’

Overview

Registered in 1999, this small hosta cultivar resulted from a cross between a variegated seedling (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance' (pollen parent). 'Emma' is visually distinctive for its medium green leaves with white, slightly rippled margins, forming a compact, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

Reaching 9 inches (22.9 cm) in height and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in diameter, 'Emma' is well-suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as edging along pathways. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its white margins remain crisp and contrast well with darker green companions such as ferns or *Heuchera*. Its small size also makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Emma' is susceptible to slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones.