H. ‘Shells at Sea’

Hosta 'Shells at Sea'
Illustration: The Hosta Farm Editorial Team.

Hosta ‘Shells at Sea’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by A. Arett.

Year registered1980
RegistrantA. Arett
Section classIV-1 (Small)

Overview

Registered in 1980 by A. Arett, this small hosta is a hybrid of *Hosta nakaiana*. It forms a compact, rounded clump 24 inches (61.0 cm) in diameter and 12 inches (30.5 cm) tall, with variegated leaves featuring green margins.

In the Garden

The leaves are 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) long and 4 inches (10.2 cm) wide. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, where its variegation remains stable. Its small size makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or containers. Companion plants include ferns, heucheras, and other small woodland perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Slugs and deer may feed on the foliage; monitor and manage as needed. This cultivar is hardy in typical hosta-growing zones.

Size and leaf

Clump height12 in (30.5 cm)
Clump width24 in (61 cm)
Leaf length6.5 in (16.5 cm)
Leaf width4 in (10.2 cm)

From the American Hosta Society Registry record.

Parentage

  • Pod parent: Hybrid of H. nakaiana

Similar cultivars

Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-1, small size):

Related guides

Registration data: AHS Registry #5090