H. ‘Lakeside Elfin Fire’

Overview

Registered in 2000, this miniature hosta was bred from *Hosta* 'Little White Lines' as the pod parent and an unnamed seedling as the pollen parent. 'Lakeside Elfin Fire' is visually distinctive for its small, narrow leaves that are green with white margins, the white areas heavily speckled with green, creating a finely variegated appearance.

In the Garden

Reaching a mature size of approximately 5 inches (12.7 cm) in height and 10 inches (25.4 cm) in diameter, this fast-growing, mound-forming miniature is well-suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or trough gardens. Its small stature makes it an excellent candidate for container culture. In typical hosta-growing zones, it performs best in partial to full shade, where the white variegation remains crisp. Companion plants might include small ferns, miniature sedges, or low-growing groundcovers that do not overwhelm its diminutive scale.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage can occur; monitor and manage as needed.