H. ‘Splashed Leather’

Overview

Registered in 1996 from unknown parentage, 'Splashed Leather' is a medium-sized hosta distinguished by its highly glossy foliage with creamy white, slightly rippled margins and green centers that exhibit streaking. The leaves are notably shiny on both surfaces, with the upper side described as very shiny and the underside equally glossy.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a moderate-growing, mound-like clump reaching 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter. The 8-inch-long by 4-inch-wide leaves feature eight pairs of veins and flat bases, with green centers streaked into 0.25-inch-wide creamy white margins. The scapes rise 20 to 28 inches (50.8 to 71.1 cm) and are green and white. It performs best in partial to light shade, typical for variegated hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor foliage for signs of feeding, particularly in damp conditions.