H. ‘Lovely Loretta’

Hosta 'Lovely Loretta'
Illustration: The Hosta Farm Editorial Team.

Hosta ‘Lovely Loretta’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by P. & J. Ruh.

Year registered2002
RegistrantP. & J. Ruh
Section classIII-3 (Medium)

Overview

Registered in 2002 by P. & J. Ruh, this medium-sized hosta cultivar is a cross between *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance' (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Ginko Craig' (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its ovate, dull-surfaced green leaves with greenish gold, slightly rippled margins, and for producing light yellow flowers on light green scapes.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Lovely Loretta' forms a mound-like clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 25 inches (63.5 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for hostas, and is suitable for shaded borders, woodland gardens, or as a groundcover in mass plantings. Its medium size makes it compatible with other shade perennials such as ferns, heucheras, and astilbes.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain evenly moist, well-drained soil, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may cause damage and should be managed through appropriate barriers or deterrents.

Size and leaf

Clump height15 in (38.1 cm)
Clump width25 in (63.5 cm)
Leaf length7.5 in (19.1 cm)
Leaf width5 in (12.7 cm)
Leafgreenish gold slightly rippled margins; dull on top; dull underneath; lightly cupped, lightly wavy, lightly corrugated and moderately folded
Flower scape height28.5 in (72.4 cm)
Notable characteristicslight yellow

From the American Hosta Society Registry record.

Parentage

Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Lovely Loretta’ as a parent:

Similar cultivars

Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-3, medium size):

Related guides

Registration data: AHS Registry #3543