H. ‘Prince of Darkness’
Hosta ‘Prince of Darkness’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-6a (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Prince of Darkness' is a medium-sized cultivar of unknown parentage, distinguished by its upright, cupped habit and strongly contrasting foliage. The leaves present a creamy, flame-like central variegation with irregular dark green margins, the latter described as very dark in tone.
In the Garden
This hosta reaches a mature diameter of approximately 29 inches (73.7 cm) and a height of 16 inches (40.6 cm), with scapes rising to 26 inches (66.0 cm). Its moderate growth rate and upright form suit it for mid-border positions or as a specimen in partial to full shade. The bold variegation pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or other hostas with solid green or gold leaves.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, though the cupped leaves may offer some protection from surface feeding.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 16 in (40.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 29 in (73.7 cm) |
| Leaf length | 7 in (17.8 cm) |
| Leaf width | 7 in (17.8 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 9 |
| Leaf | slightly shiny on top; slight glaucous bloom underneath; cupped |
| Flower scape height | 20–26 in (50.8–66.0 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | center changes from cream to white as season progresses |
| Notable characteristics | upright, cupped habit with distinctively contrasting leaf color, very dark green with creamy flame-like, variable center |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: seedling of unknown parentage
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Prince of Darkness’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Pitch Black’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-6a, medium size):
- H. ‘Vulcan’ (2007)
- H. ‘Andrew’ (2006)
- H. ‘Broad Street’ (2012)
- H. ‘Lakeside Paisley Print’ (2006)
- H. ‘American Sweetheart’ (2002)
- H. ‘Proud Peacock’ (2016)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4460