H. ‘Oxheart’
Hosta ‘Oxheart’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by E. Minks.
| Year registered | 1976 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | E. Minks |
| Section class | III-1 (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 1976 by E. Minks, this medium-sized cultivar resulted from a cross between *Hosta* 'Green Platter' and *Hosta nakaiana*. 'Oxheart' is distinguished by its dense, mounding habit and variegated foliage, featuring light green margins that contrast with the leaf centers.
In the Garden
'Oxheart' forms a compact mound reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border positions or as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hosta-growing zones, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its moderate size also accommodates container cultivation in shaded patio settings.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. Like most hostas, 'Oxheart' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor foliage regularly and apply barriers or repellents as needed.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 15 in (38.1 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 20 in (50.8 cm) |
| Leaf length | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 10 |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Green Platter' — H. ‘Green Platter’
- Pollen parent: H. nakaiana
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-1, medium size):
- H. ‘Green Furrows’ (1981)
- H. ‘Sea Octopus’ (1981)
- H. ‘Black Hills’ (1983)
- H. ‘Old Black Magic’ (1999)
- H. ‘Morning Angel’ (2000)
- H. ‘Lucille’ (2001)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4187