H. ‘Sam Spade’
Hosta ‘Sam Spade’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-4b (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 2002 by an unknown hybridizer, 'Sam Spade' is a small, fast-growing hosta distinguished by its medium green leaves with narrow, creamy white margins and its notably rhizomatous habit, which allows it to form a continuous mat. The parentage includes *H.* 'Swoosh' as the pod parent, with an unknown pollen parent.
In the Garden
Reaching approximately 11 inches (28.6 cm) in height and 26 inches (66.0 cm) in diameter, 'Sam Spade' forms a dense, mound-like clump that spreads via rhizomes. Its small size and rapid growth make it suitable for edging, groundcover, or rock gardens in partial to full shade, and it performs well in containers. Companion plants include small ferns, *Heuchera*, or other miniature hostas that complement its compact habit.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Sam Spade' is susceptible to slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 11.25 in (28.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 26 in (66 cm) |
| Leaf length | 6.5 in (16.5 cm) |
| Leaf width | 3.5 in (8.9 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 7 |
| Leaf | medium green with .25 to .31in (0.6 to 0.8cm) wide, yellow to creamy white, flat margins; slightly shiny on top; dull underneath; folded |
| Flower scape height | 21–26 in (53.3–66.0 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | rhizomatous plant and forms continuous mat, fast growing |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Swoosh' — H. ‘Swoosh’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-4b, small size):
- H. ‘Sydney's Spunk’ (2007)
- H. ‘August Fire’ (2008)
- H. ‘Blue Ivory’ (2009)
- H. ‘Dew Drop’ (1988)
- H. ‘Bold Edger’ (1983)
- H. ‘Allan P. McConnell’ (1980)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4929