H. ‘Rocket's Red Glare’

Overview

Registered in 2012, this medium-sized variegated hosta was hybridized from *Hosta* 'One Man's Treasure' and *Hosta* 'Strawberry Delight'. The cultivar is visually distinctive for its bright red petioles and red coloration extending one-third of the way up the center vein on both the front and back of each leaf.

In the Garden

'Hosta' 'Rocket's Red Glare' forms a mound-like clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 33 inches (83.8 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and its medium green leaves with slightly rippled margins provide textural contrast alongside ferns, heucheras, or other shade perennials. The dark red scapes, which rise 30 to 35 inches (76.2 to 88.9 cm) above the foliage, add vertical interest.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as with most hostas, particularly in shaded garden settings.