H. ‘Eric Smith’

Overview

Registered in 1987 by J. Archibald, this small blue-green hosta forms a compact, mounded specimen. Its leaves are notable for their nearly round shape (4 inches long by 4 inches wide) with seven pairs of veins and slight undulation along the margins, giving the foliage a subtle textured appearance.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Eric Smith' reaches a mature size of 12 inches (30.5 cm) in both height and diameter, making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container cultivation. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for blue-leaved hostas, which require protection from direct sun to maintain their glaucous coloration. Companion plants might include small ferns, heucheras, or other miniature hostas that share similar light and moisture requirements.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitoring and protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.