H. ‘Humdinger’

Overview

Registered in 1995 as a self-cross of *Hosta* 'Yellow Splash', 'Humdinger' is a small, compact cultivar distinguished by its intensely shiny foliage and reversed coloration: a yellow-gold leaf center framed by a dark green, smooth margin. The leaf blades are cordate at the base, measure 4 inches (10.2 cm) long by 2.2 inches (5.6 cm) wide, and bear seven pairs of veins; both upper and lower surfaces are described as very shiny.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 8 inches (20.3 cm) and a height of only 3 inches (7.6 cm), 'Humdinger' is suited to the front of a border, rock gardens, or trough plantings. Its small size and slow growth rate make it an excellent candidate for containers. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, as is typical for gold-margined hostas, and pairs well with other small woodland perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season; apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, protection from deer and slug damage may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.