H. ‘Tarnished’
Hosta ‘Tarnished’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by K. Vaughn.
| Year registered | 1987 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | K. Vaughn |
| Section class | IV-7 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1987 by K. Vaughn, this small hosta cultivar was produced from a cross between Hosta 'Blue Boy' (pod parent) and Hosta 'Blue Lace' (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with white margins, a metallic blue cast, and occasional rippled leaf margins; the leaf undersides are described as chalky white.
In the Garden
Hosta 'Tarnished' reaches a mature size of 6 inches (15.2 cm) in height and 14 inches (35.6 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-leaved hostas, where its leaf coloration remains truest. Companion plants might include small ferns, heucheras, or other miniature hostas that share similar light and moisture requirements.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; regular monitoring and appropriate deterrents are recommended in areas where these pests are prevalent.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 3.5 in (8.9 cm) |
| Leaf width | 2.75 in (7 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 5 |
| Leaf | metallic blue some rippled margins; chauky white underneath |
| Flower scape height | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Blue Boy'
- Pollen parent: H. 'Blue Lace' — H. ‘Blue Lace’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-7, small size):
- H. ‘Stars and Stripes’ (2000)
- H. ‘Time Traveler’ (2010)
- H. ‘Lodikito’ (2013)
- H. ‘Dianne’ (1985)
- H. ‘Irish Spring’ (1985)
- H. ‘Liberty Bell’ (1985)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5620. How we check this data.