H. ‘Li’l Abner’

Hosta 'Li’l Abner'
Illustration: The Hosta Farm Editorial Team.

Hosta ‘Li’l Abner’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by M. Zilis & J. Hadrava.

Year registered2003
OriginatorM. Zilis & J. Hadrava
Section classIII-5b (Medium)

Overview

Registered in 2003 by M. Zilis and J. Hadrava, *Hosta* 'Li’l Abner' is a stable sport of 'Rosedale Daisy Mae'. It is distinguished by medium green leaves with wide, orange-gold margins that remain flat, and a compact, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

'Li’l Abner' performs best in partial to full shade, forming a clump 18 inches (45.7 cm) tall and 40 inches (101.6 cm) wide at a moderate growth rate. Its medium size and ovate leaves with rounded bases make it suitable for the middle of a shaded border or as a groundcover under deciduous trees. Companion plants include ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so monitoring and protective measures may be necessary.

Size and leaf

Clump height18 in (45.7 cm)
Clump width40 in (101.6 cm)
Leaf length7 in (17.8 cm)
Leaf width4.5 in (11.4 cm)
Vein pairs10
Leafmedium green with .75in (1.9cm) wide, orange-ish gold, flat margins; dull on top
Flower scape height20–30 in (50.8–76.2 cm)
Notable characteristicsstable form of 'Rosedale Daisy Mae'

From the American Hosta Society Registry record.

Similar cultivars

Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-5b, medium size):

Related guides

Registration data: AHS Registry #3389