H. ‘Free Jazz’

Overview

Registered in 2011, *Hosta* 'Free Jazz' is a medium-sized variegated cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, with *H.* 'William Lachman' as the pod parent. Its most distinctive feature is the consistent, stable streaking pattern that appears in both the leaves and scapes, a trait that is reliably maintained through division and tissue culture.

In the Garden

'Free Jazz' forms a mound-shaped clump reaching 15.4 inches (39.1 cm) in height and 27 inches (68.6 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. The ovate leaves, measuring 7.3 inches (18.5 cm) long and 4.2 inches (10.7 cm) wide, have medium green, slightly rippled margins and a cordate base, with a light wavy texture and slight shine on both surfaces. The scapes, which rise 18.5 to 22.2 inches (47.0 to 56.4 cm) tall, are medium green with creamy white streaks. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for variegated hostas, and its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen plant in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Free Jazz' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, though its slightly rippled leaf margins may offer minor resistance.