H. ‘Shades of Mercy’
Hosta ‘Shades of Mercy’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1998 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-7 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1998 as a sport of Hosta 'Allan P. McConnell', 'Shades of Mercy' is a small, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its dark green leaves with narrow white margins and a pronounced contrast between the dull upper surface and very shiny undersides. The leaf blades measure 4 inches (10.2 cm) long by 2.25 inches (5.7 cm) wide, with four vein pairs, a rounded base, and flat white margins 0.25 inch (0.6 cm) wide.
In the Garden
This compact hosta reaches a mature diameter of 14 inches (35.6 cm) and a height of 7 inches (17.8 cm), forming a dense, moderate-growing mound suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as edging along paths. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and pairs well with small ferns, heucheras, or other diminutive perennials. Its small size makes it an excellent candidate for container cultivation.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Shades of Mercy' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; regular monitoring and appropriate deterrents are recommended.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 7 in (17.8 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 2.25 in (5.7 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 4 |
| Leaf | dark green streaked with .25in (0.6cm) wide, white, flat margins; dull on top; very shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 15–24 in (38.1–61.0 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Allan P. McConnell' — H. ‘Allan P. McConnell’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-7, small size):
- H. ‘Stars and Stripes’ (2000)
- H. ‘Time Traveler’ (2010)
- H. ‘Lodikito’ (2013)
- H. ‘Boogie Woogie’ (1998)
- H. ‘Monopoly’ (1998)
- H. ‘Obsession’ (1998)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5064. How we check this data.