H. ‘Gamma Ray’
Hosta ‘Gamma Ray’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-6a (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1999 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Striptease', 'Gamma Ray' is a small-sized cultivar distinguished by its green leaves with white margins—a reverse coloration pattern relative to its parent. The leaf center is pure white, bordered by a dark green margin approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) wide, with six pairs of veins and a slightly shiny surface on both sides.
In the Garden
'Gamma Ray' forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 25 inches (63.5 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and is well-suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as a groundcover in small spaces. Its small size makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation, where its white-centered leaves provide contrast against darker-foliaged companions such as ferns or heucheras.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor for pests and take protective measures if necessary.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 15 in (38.1 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 25 in (63.5 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5.25 in (13.3 cm) |
| Leaf width | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 6 |
| Leaf | slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 22–23 in (55.9–58.4 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Striptease' — H. ‘Striptease’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-6a, small size):
- H. ‘Fire and Ice’ (1999)
- H. ‘White Christmas’ (1999)
- H. ‘Allegan Fog’ (2000)
- H. ‘Clifford's Stingray’ (2000)
- H. ‘Lakeside Cupcake’ (1998)
- H. ‘Loyalist’ (1998)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2009