H. ‘Salsa’

Hosta 'Salsa'
Illustration: The Hosta Farm Editorial Team.

Hosta ‘Salsa’ is a registered cultivar () .

Year registered2002
Section classIII-7 (Medium)

Overview

Registered in 2002, *Hosta* 'Salsa' is a sport of *Hosta* 'Guacamole' and is distinguished by its variable green margin that contrasts with a dark blue-green leaf center streaked with medium green. The broadly ovate, lightly corrugated leaves measure 8 inches (20.3 cm) long by 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, with 8 to 9 pairs of veins and flat margins.

In the Garden

This medium-sized cultivar forms a mound 20 inches (50.8 cm) tall and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its substantial blue-green foliage pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials. The 38 to 42 inch (96.5 to 106.7 cm) green scapes bear lavender flowers in mid to late summer.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Salsa' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor and manage as needed.

Size and leaf

Clump height20 in (50.8 cm)
Clump width30 in (76.2 cm)
Leaf length8 in (20.3 cm)
Leaf width7 in (17.8 cm)
Vein pairs9
Leaflight green with .5 to 1in (1.3 to 2.5cm) wide, dark blue-green with medium green streaks from the margin, often to the center, flat margins; slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath; lightly corrugated
Flower scape height38–42 in (96.5–106.7 cm)
Seasonal colour changemargin darkens through the season
Notable characteristicsvariable green margin on Guacamole

From the American Hosta Society Registry record.

Parentage

Similar cultivars

Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-7, medium size):

Related guides

Registration data: AHS Registry #4922