H. ‘Pollyanna’

Overview

Registered in 1983 by Paul Banyai, this small hosta cultivar produces compact clumps of variegated foliage. The leaves are medium green with distinct margins, reaching 4 inches (10.2 cm) in length and 2 inches (5.1 cm) in width, with four pairs of veins. The parentage is unknown.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Pollyanna' reaches a mature diameter of 10 inches (25.4 cm) and height of 6.5 inches (16.5 cm), making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for small hostas, and pairs well with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, heucheras, or small woodland plants. Its compact size and variegated leaves provide textural contrast in shaded areas.

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. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.