H. ‘Racing Stripes’
Hosta ‘Racing Stripes’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2005 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-7 (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 2005, 'Racing Stripes' is a medium-sized hosta cultivar derived from a seedling of *Hosta* 'William Lachman' with unknown pollen parent. Its leaves are visually distinctive for their blue-green ground color overlaid with streaks of golden yellow, yellow, and creamy white, with slightly rippled margins that evoke the appearance of a brightly illuminated racetrack.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a mound-like clump reaching 14 inches (35.6 cm) in height and 27 inches (68.6 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the variegation remains stable, and pairs well with ferns, *Heuchera*, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or shaded containers.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Racing Stripes' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate deterrents may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 27 in (68.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8.5 in (21.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 7 in (17.8 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 13 |
| Leaf | medium green streaked with golden yellow, yellow, creamy white slightly rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; glaucous bloom underneath; lightly cupped, moderately corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 17–22 in (43.2–55.9 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | leaves reminiscent of brightly illuminated racetrack |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: seedling of H. 'William Lachman' — H. ‘William Lachman’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-7, medium size):
- H. ‘Dimpled Chad’ (2001)
- H. ‘Game Boy’ (2011)
- H. ‘So Nice’ (2015)
- H. ‘Seventh Heaven’ (1994)
- H. ‘All Star’ (2005)
- H. ‘American Misty’ (2005)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4549