H. ‘Rusty Bee’
Hosta ‘Rusty Bee’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1998 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-1 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1998, this small hosta cultivar arose as a hybrid of *Hosta* 'Beatrice'. Its visual distinction lies in the variegated foliage, featuring light green leaves with slightly rippled margins, a dull upper surface, and a slightly shiny underside with rounded leaf bases.
In the Garden
*Hosta* 'Rusty Bee' forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height and 22 inches (55.9 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and is well-suited for small garden spaces, rock gardens, or container cultivation. Companion plants such as ferns, heucheras, or small woodland perennials complement its modest stature.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor regularly and employ barriers or repellents as needed.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 12 in (30.5 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 22 in (55.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 3 in (7.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 5 |
| Leaf | light green slightly rippled margins; dull on top; slightly shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 22–23 in (55.9–58.4 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: Hybrid of H. 'Beatrice'
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-1, small size):
- H. ‘Kokuryu’ (2000)
- H. ‘Nellie Grey’ (2002)
- H. ‘Midnight Ride’ (2004)
- H. ‘Temple Bells’ (1992)
- H. ‘Almost’ (2005)
- H. ‘Bridegroom’ (1990)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4895