H. ‘Kathy-O’

Overview

Registered in 1994 by D. O'Donnell Sr., this medium-sized sport of Hosta 'Undulata Erromena' produces blue-green leaves with creamy white margins that are streaked and slightly rippled. The foliage is dull on the upper surface with a glaucous bloom beneath, and the leaf base is rounded.

In the Garden

'Hosta-O' forms a mound 18 inches (45.7 cm) tall and 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter, with leaves 7 inches (17.8 cm) long and 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide bearing seven vein pairs. Scapes reach 24 to 28 inches (61.0 to 71.1 cm) in height. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its medium size suits it for mid-border positions or as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees. It pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

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