H. ‘French Kiss’

Overview

Registered in 2004, *Hosta* 'French Kiss' is a small-sized cultivar derived from a cross between *H. 'Chartreuse Wiggles'* (seed parent) and *H. 'Spritzer'* (pollen parent). Its most distinctive features are narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are deeply twisted and moderately wavy, colored green with greenish-yellow flat margins and a dull surface on both sides.

In the Garden

'French Kiss' forms a fast-growing, mound-like clump reaching 22 inches (55.9 cm) in height and 34 inches (86.4 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where its twisted foliage texture is most pronounced. The small size and compact habit make it suitable for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders, and it pairs well with other small hostas or fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns or heucheras.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. As with most hostas, monitor for slug and deer damage, particularly on the tender new foliage.