H. ‘Rain Forest’

Overview

Registered in 1996, *Hosta* 'Rain Forest' is a small, mound-forming cultivar notable for its heavily rippled, medium green leaves with a very shiny surface on both sides. The leaf margins are strongly undulate, and the foliage emerges from a tapered base, giving the plant a textured, almost ruffled appearance.

In the Garden

'Rain Forest' reaches a mature diameter of 24 inches (61.0 cm) and a height of 15 inches (38.1 cm), with a slow growth rate that suits it for shaded borders, rock gardens, or container cultivation. Its compact size and glossy leaves make it an effective groundcover beneath deciduous trees or alongside other small hostas and shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns or heucheras. The green scapes, rising 12 to 20 inches (30.5 to 50.8 cm) tall, bear flowers typical of the species.

Care Notes

Plant in moist, well-drained soil in partial to full shade, and water regularly during dry periods to maintain leaf turgor. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth resumes; minimal division is required due to the slow growth rate. Slugs and deer may damage foliage, so monitor and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.