H. ‘Little Bit’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Surprised by Joy' registered by an unknown originator in 1999, 'Little Bit' is a miniature cultivar distinguished by its small, variegated leaves with medium green, slightly rippled margins and a rounded leaf base. The plant forms a compact, mound-like habit reaching 4 inches (10.2 cm) in height and 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate.

In the Garden

'Little Bit' performs best in partial to dappled shade, as is typical for variegated hostas, and is well-suited to rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders due to its diminutive size. Its small stature makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation, where its compact mound and subtle leaf sheen can be appreciated at close range. Companion plants should be similarly scaled, such as small ferns, *Heuchera* cultivars, or miniature *Epimedium* species.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, avoiding overhead watering to minimize foliar disease. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges; slug and deer damage may occur in typical hosta-growing zones, though the plant's small size may reduce vulnerability.