H. ‘Sharp Dressed Man’

Overview

'Sharp Dressed Man' (2005) has 'Francee' as pod parent and an unknown pollen parent. The registry describes a pure white center with a medium green, flat margin 1.5 to 2 in (3.8 to 5.1 cm) wide. The leaf is dull on top with a glaucous bloom underneath, ovate with a cordate base, and moderately folded. The entry notes an "unusual large leaf shape, good substance with high vein count, white center that does not melt out".

In the Garden

It is registered at 36 in (91.4 cm) across and 15 in (38.1 cm) tall, mound-like, with a moderate growth rate. Leaves are 10.5 in (26.7 cm) long and 6 in (15.2 cm) wide with 11 to 12 vein pairs. Seasonal color change is recorded as "center may become greenish in extreme summer heat".

How it compares

'Francee' (1986), the pod parent, has its leaf colors recorded only as "dark green white, margins". Its leaf is 9 in (22.9 cm) by 6 in (15.2 cm) with 10 vein pairs.

'Parthenon' (2010) is registered at the same 36 in (91.4 cm) by 15 in (38.1 cm). Its leaf field reads "white speckling" with a 2 in (5.1 cm) light green margin. The leaf is smaller, 7.75 in (19.7 cm) by 5 in (12.7 cm).

'Two if by Sea' (2012) also has a pure white center and medium green, flat margin, but narrower, .5 to 1 in (1.3 to 2.5 cm), on a flat 8 in (20.3 cm) by 4 in (10.2 cm) leaf. It is registered at 36 in (91.4 cm) by 16 in (40.6 cm). Pick 'Two if by Sea' for a narrow, flat leaf; 'Sharp Dressed Man' has the larger, folded leaf with a wider green edge.

Flowers and other notes

Scapes are recorded at 20 to 22 in (50.8 to 55.9 cm); flower color, size and dates are not part of the entry. For light, water and slugs, see the general hosta care guide.

Sources: AHS Registry records for 'Sharp Dressed Man' (#5082), 'Francee' (#1915), 'Parthenon' (#4230), 'Two if by Sea' (#5864), hostaregistrar.org.