H. ‘Permanent Wave’

Overview

Registered in 1989 by P. Banyai, this medium-sized cultivar of unknown parentage is distinguished by its variegated foliage with medium green leaves bearing small to medium undulations along the margins. The leaf blade reaches 16 inches (40.6 cm) in length and 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) in width, with six vein pairs, and the plant forms a clump 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Permanent Wave' performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for variegated hostas, and reaches a mature spread of approximately 32 inches (81 cm) with a height of 12 inches (30 cm). Its medium size and undulating leaf margins make it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded beds, where it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The scape rises to 19 inches (48.3 cm) in height, though the flower characteristics are not specified in the registration.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as hostas are susceptible to both pests in typical hosta-growing zones.