H. ‘Richland Surprise’
Hosta ‘Richland Surprise’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-4b (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 1999, 'Richland Surprise' is a medium-sized sport of *Hosta* 'Splish Splash' distinguished by its blue-green leaves with broad, creamy white margins. The foliage exhibits a glaucous bloom on both surfaces, with the white margin extending approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) inward from the leaf edge.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 24 inches (61.0 cm) in height and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter, with leaves measuring 8 inches (20.3 cm) long and 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide. The green scapes rise 30 to 34 inches (76.2 to 86.4 cm) above the foliage. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for variegated hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in woodland gardens.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer deterrents are recommended, as both pests may damage the foliage.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 24 in (61 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 36 in (91.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Leaf width | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 11 |
| Leaf | dark green with 2in (5.1cm) wide, creamy white, slightly rippled margins; glaucous bloom on top; glaucous bloom underneath |
| Flower scape height | 30–34 in (76.2–86.4 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Splish Splash'
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Richland Surprise’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Richland Charmer’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-4b, medium size):
- H. ‘Lakeside Beloved’ (1999)
- H. ‘Aristocrat’ (1997)
- H. ‘El Niño’ (2003)
- H. ‘Applause’ (2006)
- H. ‘Patriot’ (1991)
- H. ‘Quiet Waters’ (2008)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4672