H. ‘Lakeside Dark Dancer’

Overview

Registered in 2002, 'Lakeside Dark Dancer' is a medium-sized hosta cultivar of unknown parentage, resulting from a selfed unnamed seedling. Its distinctive appearance combines dark green, very shiny leaves with slightly rippled margins and a moderate twist, creating a refined textural contrast in the garden.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound-shaped clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 34 inches (86.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, where its glossy foliage can be appreciated without scorching. The dark green leaves pair well with lighter-foliaged perennials such as ferns or Heuchera, and the plant's medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry spells, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor for these pests and apply controls as needed.