H. ‘James River’

Overview

Registered in 2005, *Hosta* 'James River' is a small, mound-forming cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, with *H.* 'Pin Stripe Sister' as the pod parent. It is visually distinctive for its ovate leaves with medium green margins and very shiny upper surfaces, combined with purple petioles and moderately wavy leaf margins.

In the Garden

Reaching approximately 11 inches (27.9 cm) in height and 33 inches (83.8 cm) in diameter, 'James River' forms a moderate-growing, dense mound suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container culture. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and pairs well with other small hostas, ferns, or shade-tolerant groundcovers. Its compact size and shiny foliage make it an effective edging plant.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.