H. ‘Karen’
Hosta ‘Karen’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-4b (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1999, *Hosta* 'Karen' is a small-sized sport of the cross between *H. 'Crepe Suzette'* and *H. 'Blue Moon'*. It forms a compact, mound-like clump distinguished by blue-green leaves with a wide, white margin and a glaucous bloom on the undersides.
In the Garden
'Hosta' reaches a mature diameter of 17 inches (43.2 cm) and a height of 6 inches (15.2 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It is suitable for partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and performs well in rock gardens, troughs, or as a front-of-border accent. Its small stature and tidy habit make it an excellent candidate for container cultivation, where the contrasting white margins are readily visible.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Karen' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 17 in (43.2 cm) |
| Leaf length | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 3.38 in (8.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 6 |
| Leaf | slightly shiny on top; glaucous bloom underneath |
| Flower scape height | 16–18 in (40.6–45.7 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of (H. 'Crepe Suzette' x H. 'Blue Moon') — H. ‘Crepe Suzette’, H. ‘Blue Moon’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-4b, small size):
- H. ‘Sydney's Spunk’ (2007)
- H. ‘August Fire’ (2008)
- H. ‘Blue Ivory’ (2009)
- H. ‘Dew Drop’ (1988)
- H. ‘Bold Edger’ (1983)
- H. ‘Allan P. McConnell’ (1980)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2968