H. ‘Gretchen Harshbarger’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek through the American Hosta Society, 'Gretchen Harshbarger' is a medium-sized sport of Hosta 'King Tut' distinguished by its blue-green leaves with wide golden yellow margins. The foliage is heavily corrugated, lightly cupped, and ovate with a cordate base, exhibiting a dull upper surface and a glaucous bloom beneath; it is believed to be a H. 'Tokudama' type.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound-like clump reaching approximately 20 inches (51 cm) in height and 30 inches (76 cm) in spread at maturity, with leaves 8 inches (20.3 cm) long and 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the blue-green leaf centers and gold margins hold their color well; excessive sun may cause marginal burning. Suitable companions include ferns, Heuchera, and other shade-tolerant perennials, and it can be grown in containers if provided adequate drainage and consistent moisture.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first growing season, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may cause damage; monitor for slug activity on the heavily corrugated leaves and use barriers or controls as needed.