H. ‘Slick Willie’
Hosta ‘Slick Willie’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1996 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-1 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1996, 'Slick Willie' is a small hosta cultivar derived from a cross between *Hosta ventricosa* (pod parent) and *H. 'Invincible'* (pollen parent). Its most distinctive feature is the exceptionally glossy, almost lacquered surface on both leaf surfaces, combined with dark green, smooth margins and variegated coloration.
In the Garden
This mound-forming plant reaches 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 24 inches (61.0 cm) in diameter at maturity, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its compact size makes it suitable for rock gardens, container plantings, or the front of shaded borders. The shiny foliage pairs well with fine-textured ferns or small woodland perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, avoiding overhead watering to prevent leaf spotting. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, 'Slick Willie' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 18 in (45.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 24 in (61 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 4.25 in (10.8 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 6 |
| Leaf | dark green smooth margins; very shiny on top; very shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 20–28 in (50.8–71.1 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. ventricosa
- Pollen parent: H. 'Invincible' — H. ‘Invincible’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-1, small size):
- H. ‘Kokuryu’ (2000)
- H. ‘Temple Bells’ (1992)
- H. ‘Bridegroom’ (1990)
- H. ‘Nellie Grey’ (2002)
- H. ‘Spartan Gem’ (1989)
- H. ‘Midnight Ride’ (2004)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5209