H. ‘First Blush’

Overview

*Hosta* 'First Blush' is a medium-sized variegated cultivar registered in 2016, originating as a seedling from Solberg 48/49. The plant is distinguished by its emergence coloration: petioles and leaf margins appear blood red in early spring, and the first leaves develop a red "blush" that becomes most pronounced when the second flush of foliage appears. This transient red pigmentation on otherwise green leaves gives the cultivar its name.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'First Blush' forms a symmetrical mound 14 inches (35.6 cm) in height and 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. The leaves are ovate with a rounded base, measuring 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) long and 5 inches (21.6 cm) wide, and bear 6 to 7 vein pairs. The leaf surface is slightly shiny on both the upper and lower sides; the margins are flat and medium green, while the petioles and leaf edges exhibit the characteristic red coloration in spring. The scape rises 26 to 28 inches (66.0 to 71.1 cm) and is reddish-green. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, where the red margins and blushing effect are most visible. It can be used as a specimen in shaded borders, in mass plantings, or in containers. Companion plants that provide contrasting foliage texture, such as ferns or *Heuchera*, complement its mound-like habit without competing for attention.

Care Notes

*Hosta* 'First Blush' requires consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and benefits from a balanced slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; regular monitoring and appropriate barriers or repellents may be necessary. It is hardy in typical hosta-growing zones, though specific zone limits are not recorded for this cultivar.