H. ‘Joy Ride’

Overview

Registered in 2016, *Hosta* 'Joy Ride' is a medium-sized cultivar originating from a cross between *H. 'Salute'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Maekawa'* (pollen parent). It is distinguished by its medium blue-green, lance-shaped leaves with heavily rippled margins and a glaucous bloom on both surfaces, combined with a notably fast growth rate for its size class.

In the Garden

'Joy Ride' forms a mound-like clump reaching 25 inches (63.5 cm) in height and 80 inches (203.2 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in partial to full shade, as typical for blue-leaved hostas. Its arching scapes, which rise 41 to 45 inches (104.1 to 114.3 cm) above the foliage, produce medium green flowers and add vertical interest. The plant's substantial size and rapid spread make it appropriate for larger shaded areas or as a groundcover, though it may require space to accommodate its eventual width.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during establishment, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. The glaucous leaf coating is susceptible to slug damage, and deer may browse the foliage in typical hosta-growing zones.