H. ‘Little Orphan Annie’

Overview

Registered in 2005 by an unknown hybridizer, *Hosta* 'Little Orphan Annie' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by blue-green leaves streaked with yellows and creamy white, slightly rippled margins. The broadly ovate, lightly cupped leaves are moderately corrugated, with a slightly shiny upper surface and a glaucous bloom beneath, and the plant produces floriferous scapes with white-backed flowers.

In the Garden

'Little Orphan Annie' forms an upright clump reaching 14 inches (35.6 cm) in height and 25 inches (63.5 cm) in diameter, with scapes rising 25 to 29 inches (63.5 to 73.7 cm). It performs best in partial to full shade with consistent moisture, typical of most hostas, and its moderate growth rate makes it suitable for mixed borders or woodland gardens. The blue-green and cream variegation pairs well with ferns, astilbes, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide regular water during dry periods, especially in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it may be susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing in garden settings.