H. ‘Kaleidochrome’
Hosta ‘Kaleidochrome’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by Unknown (Japan).
| Year registered | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Originator | Unknown (Japan) |
| Section class | IV-7 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 2009 as a Japanese Iwa Seedling of unknown parentage, *Hosta* 'Kaleidochrome' is a small, mound-forming cultivar derived from *Hosta longipes* as the pod parent. Its distinctive foliage consists of green leaves marked with large, stable sectors of white and golden yellow along flat margins, with an irregular streaked and mottled pattern across the blade.
In the Garden
Reaching approximately 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height and 22 inches (55.9 cm) in diameter, 'Kaleidochrome' forms a compact, moderate-growing mound suitable for shaded borders, rock gardens, or container cultivation. Its small size and variegated leaves pair well with fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns, heucheras, or small woodland sedges. The yellow scapes, rising to 16 inches (40.6 cm), bear typical lavender flowers in midsummer.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture in well-drained, humus-rich soil typical of hosta-growing zones; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as with most hostas.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 22 in (55.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 2.5 in (6.4 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 6 |
| Leaf | streaked and mottled; green with large sectors of white and golden yellow flat margins; slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath; lightly wavy |
| Flower scape height | 16 in (40.6 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | obtained as an Iwa Seedling; no originator or any other information supplied; original plant was a single division and fairly small, unusually streaked and mottled, yet in a stable configuration |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. longipes
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Kaleidochrome’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Monochrome’ (sport)
- H. ‘Uju’ (sport)
- H. ‘Vuvuzela’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-7, small size):
- H. ‘Lodikito’ (2013)
- H. ‘Ray of Hope’ (2005)
- H. ‘Stars and Stripes’ (2000)
- H. ‘Charlotte's Web’ (2009)
- H. ‘Coach Jim Fox’ (2009)
- H. ‘Cotton Candy’ (2009)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2966