H. ‘Strawberry Surprise’
Hosta ‘Strawberry Surprise’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2008 |
|---|---|
| Section class | II-5b (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2008, this large hosta cultivar results from a cross between *Hosta* 'Liberty Bell' (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Noah's Ark' (pollen parent). 'Strawberry Surprise' is visually distinctive for its broad, blue-green leaves with wide, irregular golden yellow margins, complemented by glaucous burgundy scapes and striped bracts that contribute a five-color effect.
In the Garden
Mature plants reach approximately 42 inches (107 cm) in diameter and 16 inches (41 cm) in height, with an upright, moderate growth habit. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, where its leaf coloration remains most stable. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or accent in shaded borders and woodland gardens; it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as both pests may damage the broad, tender foliage.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 16 in (40.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 42 in (106.7 cm) |
| Leaf length | 10.75 in (27.3 cm) |
| Leaf width | 7.75 in (19.7 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 11 |
| Leaf | slightly blue-green with .63 to 1.25in (1.6 to 3.2cm) wide, irregular golden yellow, slightly rippled margins; dull to lightly glaucous bloom on top; dull underneath; moderately cupped, lightly wavy, moderately corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 27–30 in (68.6–76.2 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | creamy yellow |
| Notable characteristics | large leaf with wide margin, 5 colors, red burgundy scapes, striped bracts |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Liberty Bell' — H. ‘Liberty Bell’
- Pollen parent: H. 'Noah's Ark'
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Strawberry Surprise’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Passionate Pink’ (seedling (pod parent))
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-5b, large size):
- H. ‘August Beauty’ (2009)
- H. ‘Afternoon Delight’ (2003)
- H. ‘Andy Murray’ (2013)
- H. ‘Arc de Triomphe’ (2000)
- H. ‘Band of Gold’ (1999)
- H. ‘Blue River’ (1998)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5417