H. ‘St. Nicholas’

Overview

Registered in 2007 from seedling parents, the medium-sized *Hosta* 'St. Nicholas' is distinguished by its variegated foliage: medium green leaves with slightly rippled margins, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a dull underside. The elliptic leaves, measuring 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) long and 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide with 7 to 8 vein pairs and a tapered base, exhibit a lightly wavy form.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 32 inches (81.3 cm) and height of 16 inches (40.6 cm), 'St. Nicholas' has an upright, moderate growth habit suited to partial to dappled shade in typical hosta-growing zones. Its medium size and green variegation pair well with ferns, heucheras, or other shade perennials that complement its leaf texture. The cultivar produces green scapes up to 27 inches (68.6 cm) tall bearing clusters of flowers, with approximately 9.5 inches of bloom per scape at a width of 3.5 inches.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate barriers or deterrents.