H. ‘Red Stepper’

Overview

Registered in 1996, 'Red Stepper' is a small hosta of unknown pollen parentage, with H. 'Invincible' as the pod parent. It is visually distinctive for its medium green leaves with slightly rippled margins, a very shiny upper and lower surface, and red to green scapes that rise above the mound.

In the Garden

'Red Stepper' reaches a mature size of 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in diameter, forming a moderate-growing, mound-like clump. It is suited to partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones, where its small stature and shiny variegated foliage make it an effective groundcover or edging plant. Its compact habit also suits container culture, and it pairs well with other small shade perennials such as Heuchera or ferns.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug damage, particularly on the shiny leaves, and may require protection in areas with heavy deer pressure.