H. ‘Kiowa’

Overview

Registered in 2013, *Hosta* 'Kiowa' is a sport of a seedling from a splashed parent, notable for its deeply cupped, heavily corrugated blue-green leaves with a yellow to medium green to medium blue center that displays medio-centered yellow splashing. The leaf margins are a distinct blue-green, slightly rippled, and approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, contributing to a compact, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

'Kiowa' reaches a mature diameter of 30 inches (76.2 cm) and a height of 12 inches (30.5 cm), with a slow growth rate that suits it for shaded borders, rock gardens, or as a specimen in small groupings. Its thick, corrugated foliage provides textural contrast when paired with fine-leaved plants such as ferns or *Heuchera*. It performs best in partial to full shade; too much sun may cause leaf scorch, particularly on the yellow center.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, applying water at the base to avoid wetting the foliage. Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges; slug and deer resistance is typical for thick-leaved cultivars but not guaranteed.