H. ‘Kiwi Blue Flash’
Hosta ‘Kiwi Blue Flash’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2000 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-7 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 2000 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Blue Cadet', 'Kiwi Blue Flash' is a small, fast-growing cultivar distinguished by its variegated foliage of green leaves with slightly rippled margins, streaked with lighter tones. The plant forms a compact mound reaching 6.8 inches (17.3 cm) in height and 17.75 inches (45.1 cm) in diameter, with blue-green scapes rising 14 to 17 inches (35.6 to 43.2 cm) above the foliage.
In the Garden
'Kiwi Blue Flash' performs best in partial to full shade, where its variegated leaves hold their color without scorching. Its small size makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as a groundcover in shaded areas, and it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other small hostas. The compact dimensions also suit container cultivation, though the fast growth rate may require division every few years.
Care Notes
Water regularly during dry periods, applying water at soil level to avoid leaf spotting. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula; slug and deer damage is possible and may require protective measures in areas where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 6.8 in (17.3 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 17.75 in (45.1 cm) |
| Leaf length | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 2 in (5.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 6 |
| Leaf | green streaked slightly rippled margins; dull on top; dull underneath |
| Flower scape height | 14–17 in (35.6–43.2 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Blue Cadet' — H. ‘Blue Cadet’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-7, small size):
- H. ‘Stars and Stripes’ (2000)
- H. ‘Ray of Hope’ (2005)
- H. ‘Lodikito’ (2013)
- H. ‘Butter and Eggs’ (2000)
- H. ‘Dipsy Doodle’ (2000)
- H. ‘Honeycomb’ (2000)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3056