H. ‘Ringtail’

Overview

Registered in 2005, *Hosta* 'Ringtail' is a medium-sized variegated cultivar bred from *H. 'Green Fountain'* (pod parent) and an unnamed seedling. Its most distinctive features are the heavily rippled leaf margins and a curled leaf tip, which give the foliage a textured, undulating appearance.

In the Garden

'Ringtail' forms a mound-like clump reaching 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its lance-shaped leaves with tapered bases and medium green, rippled margins provide textural contrast alongside broader-leaved companions such as *H. 'Sum and Substance'* or ferns. The green scapes, 28 to 30 inches (71.1 to 76.2 cm) tall, bear lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges. While slug and deer resistance is not specifically documented for this cultivar, standard precautions against these pests are advisable in typical hosta-growing zones.