H. ‘Flemish Melody’

Overview

Registered in 2008 as an open-pollinated seedling of *Hosta* 'Redneck Heaven', 'Flemish Melody' is a small, upright cultivar distinguished by its blue-green, lance-shaped leaves with heavily rippled margins, red petioles, and twisted leaf tips. The foliage displays a glaucous bloom on the underside and a slightly shiny upper surface, while the scapes rise to 14.6–17.3 inches (37.1–43.9 cm) bearing red stems that contrast with the white leaf backs.

In the Garden

'Flemish Melody' reaches a mature diameter of 17.7 inches (45.0 cm) and a height of 9.6 inches (24.4 cm), forming a vase-shaped clump that exhibits the red petioles prominently. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical of most hostas, and its compact size suits rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders. Companion plants such as ferns, *Heuchera*, or small *Carex* complement its upright habit and blue-green tones.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, especially in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs may damage the foliage in damp conditions; deer are a potential threat in areas where they browse.