H. ‘Melissa Anne’

Overview

Registered in 2000 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Julie Morss', 'Melissa Anne' is a medium-sized, fast-growing cultivar distinguished by its variegated foliage: green leaves with streaked margins, a dull surface on both sides, and a cordate base. The plant forms a dense mound reaching 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter, with leaf blades measuring 6 inches (15.2 cm) long and 5.5 inches (14.0 cm) wide, bearing eight pairs of veins.

In the Garden

'Melissa Anne' performs best in partial to full shade, typical for variegated hostas, where its green-streaked margins remain stable without scorching. Its medium size and fast growth rate make it suitable for mid-border positions, woodland gardens, or as a groundcover under deciduous trees. The 26- to 28-inch (66.0 to 71.1 cm) green scapes produce lavender flowers in midsummer, which pair well with ferns, astilbes, or 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, 'Melissa Anne' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor foliage regularly and use barriers or repellents as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.