H. ‘Mystic Star’

Overview

Registered in 2004, this medium-sized hosta cultivar resulted from a cross between *H. yingeri* and *H.* 'Dorset Blue'. Its most distinctive features are the broadly ovate, blue-green leaves with a glaucous bloom on both surfaces, borne on short petioles that hold the foliage low to the ground relative to leaf size.

In the Garden

'Mystic Star' forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter and 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, where its blue-green foliage maintains its color. The compact habit and short scapes (13–15 inches / 33–38 cm) make it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, where it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor foliage regularly for feeding.