H. ‘Friends’

Overview

Registered in 2007 by B. Scott and introduced by G. R. Goodwin, *Hosta* 'Friends' is a small, fast-growing cultivar derived from the pod parent *H. 'Spritzer'*. It is visually distinctive for its lance-shaped, green leaves with yellow, slightly rippled margins, a combination that becomes more pronounced as the season progresses due to its viridescent nature.

In the Garden

'Friends' forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 6 inches (15.2 cm) in height and 15 inches (38.1 cm) in diameter, making it well-suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to full shade and pairs effectively with other small hostas, ferns, or shade-tolerant groundcovers. Its vigorous growth rate allows it to fill in quickly, though its small stature ensures it remains a foreground plant.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry spells, 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, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.