H. ‘Purple Passion’

Overview

Registered in 2005 by P. & J. Ruh, this small blue-green hosta is distinguished by its heavy flowering habit and the production of purple seed pods, an uncommon trait in the genus. The leaves are ovate with rounded bases, measuring 5 inches long and 2.63 inches wide, bearing a glaucous bloom on the upper surface and a very shiny underside. Medium green, slightly rippled margins frame the leaf blade, which is lightly cupped, moderately folded, and moderately wavy.

In the Garden

With a mature diameter of 22 inches and height of 17 inches, 'Purple Passion' forms a compact, mound-like clump with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and its small stature makes it well suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container cultivation. The dark green scapes rise to 24 inches, carrying abundant flowers that are followed by the cultivar’s namesake purple seed capsules, which provide late-season interest.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard hosta pest precautions apply, particularly against slugs and deer, though the glaucous leaf coating may offer some resistance to minor feeding.