H. ‘Hard Ball’

Overview

Registered in 2012, *Hosta* 'Hard Ball' is a small-sized cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, with *H.* 'Zany Janie' as the pod parent. It is visually distinguished by its broadly ovate, lightly cupped leaves with green centers and greenish yellow margins, good substance, and a dense, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

'Hard Ball' reaches a mature diameter of approximately 22 inches (55.9 cm) and a height of 14 inches (35.6 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its compact size makes it suitable for rock gardens, edging, or the front of a border. It pairs well with small ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials of similar scale.

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 most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate barriers or deterrents.