H. ‘Ray of Hope’
Hosta ‘Ray of Hope’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by A. Tower.
| Year registered | 2005 |
|---|---|
| Originator | A. Tower |
| Registrant | R. Solberg |
| Section class | IV-7 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 2005 by R. Solberg from a sport originated by A. Tower, *Hosta* 'Ray of Hope' is a small-sized cultivar distinguished by its narrow, intensely wavy leaves with medium green centers streaked with cream and heavily rippled white margins. The lance-shaped leaves, measuring 5.25 inches (13.3 cm) long and 2 inches (5.1 cm) wide, display moderate shine on both surfaces and good substance.
In the Garden
'Ray of Hope' forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 5 inches (12.7 cm) in height and 14 inches (35.6 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical for hostas, and its small stature makes it well suited for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders. The narrow, wavy foliage pairs effectively with fine-textured ferns or small woodland perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain even moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug damage and may require protection in damp conditions; deer browsing is also a potential concern in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5.25 in (13.3 cm) |
| Leaf width | 2 in (5.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 4 |
| Leaf | medium green with streaks of cream throughout heavily rippled margins; moderately shiny on top; moderately shiny underneath; intensely wavy |
| Flower scape height | 24–32 in (61.0–81.3 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | narrow wavy leaves with good substance, with streaked variegation |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Ray of Hope’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Roller Coaster Ride’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-7, small size):
- H. ‘Stars and Stripes’ (2000)
- H. ‘Lodikito’ (2013)
- H. ‘Academy Grass Clippings’ (2005)
- H. ‘Bob Koffler’ (2005)
- H. ‘Cutie Pie’ (2005)
- H. ‘Dorset Glenn’ (2005)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4581