H. ‘Pianissimo’

Overview

Registered in 2004, *Hosta* 'Pianissimo' is a large, mound-forming cultivar resulting from a cross between a *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict' F-2 seedling (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Gold Regal' (pollen parent). The cultivar is distinguished by its subtle, soft coloration: blue-green leaves with greenish-yellow margins and a glaucous bloom on the undersides.

In the Garden

'Pianissimo' forms a substantial mound 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter and 16 inches (40.6 cm) tall, with a moderate growth rate. Its broadly ovate, lightly corrugated leaves reach 11 inches (27.9 cm) long and 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, with 12 to 14 vein pairs and flat margins 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) wide. The scapes rise 24 to 27 inches (61.0 to 68.6 cm) high. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its large size makes it unsuitable for containers.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick leaves provide moderate slug resistance, though monitoring may be needed in damp conditions. Deer may browse young foliage.