H. ‘Gum Drop’

Overview

Registered in 1987 by L. Englerth and P. Ruh, 'Gum Drop' is a small hosta of unknown parentage distinguished by its variegated foliage: green margins frame a lighter leaf center, with seven pairs of veins per leaf. The plant forms a compact mound reaching 13 inches (33.0 cm) in height and 8 inches (20.3 cm) in diameter, with individual leaves measuring 4 inches (10.2 cm) long and 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) wide.

In the Garden

'Gum Drop' performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and reaches a mature size of roughly one foot tall and eight inches wide. Its small stature makes it well-suited for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of a shaded border, where it pairs effectively with other small perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*. The compact dimensions also render it suitable for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate barriers or deterrents.