H. ‘Pineapple Zest’

Overview

Registered in 2010 as an open-pollinated seedling of *Hosta* 'PG-13', 'Pineapple Zest' is a small, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its narrow, wavy, golden yellow leaves with green centers. The leaf blade is elliptic with a tapered base, measuring 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) long and 1.75 inches (4.4 cm) wide, with 4 to 5 vein pairs and a slightly shiny upper surface. The golden yellow margins are flat, and the overall effect is a compact, bright mound of foliage.

In the Garden

Reaching 7 inches (17.8 cm) in height and 15 inches (38.1 cm) in diameter with a moderate growth rate, 'Pineapple Zest' is well suited to the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to light shade, where the gold margins remain most vivid, and can be paired with small ferns, heucheras, or other miniature hostas. Its small size and tidy habit make it an excellent choice for troughs or small pots.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, monitor for slug and deer damage, though the narrow, wavy leaves may be slightly less appealing to slugs than broader-leaved cultivars.