H. ‘Mistress Mabel’
Hosta ‘Mistress Mabel’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1995 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-4b (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 1995, 'Mistress Mabel' is a medium-sized hosta resulting from a cross between an F-6 seedling of *H.* 'Beatrice' × *H.* 'Blue Moon' (pod parent) and *H. plantaginea* (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its medium green leaves with creamy white margins, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a very shiny underside, forming a dense, mound-like habit.
In the Garden
This cultivar reaches approximately 27 inches (68.6 cm) in diameter and 17 inches (43.2 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or as a groundcover under deciduous trees. Companion plants such as ferns, *Heuchera*, or *Tiarella* complement its foliage.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While 'Mistress Mabel' shows typical hosta resistance to deer, slug and snail damage may occur on the broad leaves in damp conditions.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 17 in (43.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 27 in (68.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8.5 in (21.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 5.75 in (14.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 9 |
| Leaf | medium green creamy white, smooth margins; slightly shiny on top; very shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 22–24 in (55.9–61.0 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: F-6 seedling of H. 'Beatrice' x H. Blue Moon
- Pollen parent: H. plantaginea
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-4b, medium size):
- H. ‘Aristocrat’ (1997)
- H. ‘Lakeside Beloved’ (1999)
- H. ‘Patriot’ (1991)
- H. ‘El Niño’ (2003)
- H. ‘Francee’ (1986)
- H. ‘So Sweet’ (1986)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3824