H. ‘Hard Ball’
Hosta ‘Hard Ball’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2012 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-3 (Small) |
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.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 22 in (55.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 8 |
| Leaf | dull on top; dull underneath; lightly cupped |
| Notable characteristics | good substance |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Zany Janie' — H. ‘Zany Janie’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-3, small size):
- H. ‘Post-it’ (2012)
- H. ‘Peach Salsa’ (2013)
- H. ‘Blonde Elf’ (2010)
- H. ‘Little Miss Magic’ (2004)
- H. ‘Fire Island’ (1998)
- H. ‘Gold Cadet’ (1974)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2448