H. ‘Marlu's Carrie Lynn’

Overview

Registered in 2014 by B. & D. Stegeman, this small variegated hosta originated from a cross between *H.* 'Little Wonder' (pod parent) and *H.* 'Elvis Lives' (pollen parent). Its most distinctive feature is the deep purple scape, which appears before blooming and contrasts with the medium green, slightly rippled leaf margins.

In the Garden

'Marlu's Carrie Lynn' forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 9 inches (22.9 cm) in height and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. The ovate leaves, measuring 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) long and 2.75 inches (7.0 cm) wide, have medium green, slightly rippled margins, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a dull underside; they are lightly folded and flat with six vein pairs and a rounded base. This small cultivar is well suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, and pairs effectively with other small perennials in partial to full shade.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Typical hosta-growing zones apply; standard slug and deer precautions are recommended for this small-leaved cultivar.