H. ‘Hirao Imperial’
Hosta ‘Hirao Imperial’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by S. Hirao & P. Ruh.
| Year registered | 1998 |
|---|---|
| Originator | S. Hirao & P. Ruh |
| Section class | IV-1 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1998 by S. Hirao and P. Ruh, *Hosta* 'Hirao Imperial' is a small, slow-growing cultivar with variegated foliage. Its leaves feature dark green, slightly rippled margins, a slightly shiny upper and lower surface, and tapered bases, creating a compact, mound-like form.
In the Garden
'Hirao Imperial' reaches a mature diameter of 15.5 inches (39.4 cm) and a height of 9.5 inches (24.1 cm), making it suitable for small garden spaces, rockeries, or container cultivation. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and pairs well with other small perennials such as ferns or heucheras. Its slow growth rate and tidy habit make it an excellent choice for edging or foreground planting.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage, so monitor regularly and use barriers or repellents as needed.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 9.5 in (24.1 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 15.5 in (39.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5.5 in (14 cm) |
| Leaf width | 1.75 in (4.4 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 5 |
| Leaf | dark green slightly rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 13 in (33.0 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-1, small size):
- H. ‘Kokuryu’ (2000)
- H. ‘Nellie Grey’ (2002)
- H. ‘Midnight Ride’ (2004)
- H. ‘Temple Bells’ (1992)
- H. ‘Almost’ (2005)
- H. ‘Bridegroom’ (1990)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2573