H. ‘Gekko’
Hosta ‘Gekko’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by P. Ruh.
| Year registered | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | P. Ruh |
| Section class | IV-4b (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 2002 by Paul Ruh, *Hosta* 'Gekko' is a small, dwarf variegated cultivar of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its compact, flat-growing mound of ovate leaves with creamy white margins that are wider than the leaf center, causing the leaf blade to twist and fold.
In the Garden
'Hosta' 'Gekko' reaches a mature diameter of 8 inches (20.3 cm) and a height of 3.5 inches (8.9 cm), forming a low, mound-like habit with moderate growth. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for hostas, and its small size makes it well-suited for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of a shaded border. Companion plants include other small shade perennials such as *Heuchera* or miniature ferns.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain even moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Gekko' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 3.5 in (8.9 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Leaf length | 3.5 in (8.9 cm) |
| Leaf width | 1.8 in (4.6 cm) |
| Leaf | light green with .1 to .5in (0.3 to 1.3cm) wide, creamy white with gray-green mottling between leaf center and edge, slightly rippled margins; dull on top; slightly shiny underneath; lightly twisted and moderately folded |
| Flower scape height | 14–16 in (35.6–40.6 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | variegated dwarf, grows flat; wide white edge makes leaf twist |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-4b, small size):
- H. ‘Sydney's Spunk’ (2007)
- H. ‘August Fire’ (2008)
- H. ‘Blue Ivory’ (2009)
- H. ‘Dew Drop’ (1988)
- H. ‘Bold Edger’ (1983)
- H. ‘Allan P. McConnell’ (1980)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2035