H. ‘Ki Nakafu Otome’
Hosta ‘Ki Nakafu Otome’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by Unknown (Japan).
| Year registered | 2003 |
|---|---|
| Originator | Unknown (Japan) |
| Section class | IV-6a (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 2003, this small Japanese cultivar of unknown parentage produces a low, dense mound of ovate leaves with greenish-yellow centers and medium green margins. The leaf blades are dull above with a slight sheen beneath, measuring 3 inches long by 2 inches wide, with 3 to 5 vein pairs and lightly wavy edges.
In the Garden
Reaching 5 inches in height and spreading to 20 inches in diameter, 'Ki Nakafu Otome' forms a compact mound suitable for the front of shaded borders or rock gardens. Its moderate growth rate and small stature make it an appropriate choice for container cultivation, where the contrasting leaf centers and margins remain visible at close range. Pair with fine-textured woodland perennials such as ferns or small sedges.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 20 in (50.8 cm) |
| Leaf length | 3 in (7.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 2 in (5.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 5 |
| Leaf | greenish yellow with .25in (0.6cm) wide, medium green, flat margins; dull on top; slightly shiny underneath; lightly wavy |
| Flower scape height | 10–20 in (25.4–50.8 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | center turns green by mid-summer |
| Notable characteristics | long-standing cultivar from Japan. Name by associating the Japanese cultivar with its species name. |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-6a, small size):
- H. ‘Rainforest Sunrise’ (2003)
- H. ‘June Fever’ (2004)
- H. ‘Rainbow's End’ (2005)
- H. ‘Allegan Fog’ (2000)
- H. ‘Americana’ (2006)
- H. ‘Clifford's Stingray’ (2000)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3018