H. ‘Surprised by Joy’
Hosta ‘Surprised by Joy’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1998 |
|---|---|
| Section class | V-6a (Miniature) |
Overview
Registered in 1998, *Hosta* 'Surprised by Joy' is a miniature hybrid derived from *H.* 'Flamboyant' (pod parent) and *H. venusta* (pollen parent). This cultivar is visually distinctive for its small, mound-like habit and green leaves edged with white margins that are streaked with green and slightly rippled.
In the Garden
'Surprised by Joy' forms a compact mound 8 inches (20.3 cm) in diameter and 4 inches (10.2 cm) tall, with a moderate growth rate. It is suited to partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones and pairs well with other small perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*. Its miniature size makes it an excellent choice for troughs, rock gardens, or the front of a shaded border.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor and manage as needed.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Leaf length | 2 in (5.1 cm) |
| Leaf width | 1.5 in (3.8 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 4 |
| Leaf | white with .25in (0.6cm) wide, green streaked, slightly rippled margins; dull on top; slightly shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 8–9 in (20.3–22.9 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Flamboyant' — H. ‘Flamboyant’
- Pollen parent: H. venusta
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Surprised by Joy’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Captain Atom’ (sport)
- H. ‘Little Bit’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (V-6a, miniature size):
- H. ‘X-rated’ (2001)
- H. ‘Hidden Cove’ (1998)
- H. ‘Frosted Waves’ (2000)
- H. ‘Green with Envy’ (2000)
- H. ‘Lakeside Elfin Fire’ (2000)
- H. ‘Lakeside Paddywack’ (1996)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5556