H. ‘Ice Age’

Overview

Registered in 2002, *Hosta* 'Ice Age' is a medium-sized cultivar of unknown parentage, distinguished by its striking leaf coloration: a broad, pure white center (up to 2 inches wide) surrounded by dark green to greenish-yellow, slightly rippled margins. The white center often exhibits green or greenish-yellow streaking that extends inward from the margin, creating a marbled or variegated effect.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height and 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter, with broadly ovate, lightly wavy leaves measuring 9 inches (22.9 cm) long and 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide. It performs best in partial to full shade, as the white leaf center is prone to scorch in direct sun, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, or other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or shaded rock gardens, though it is not typically recommended for container culture due to its spreading habit.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many hostas, 'Ice Age' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in gardens where these pests are prevalent.