H. ‘Tentacles’
Hosta ‘Tentacles’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1996 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-1 (Small) |
Overview
Registered in 1996, this small-sized cultivar resulted from a cross between *Hosta* 'Don Stevens' and *Hosta* 'Sea Octopus'. 'Tentacles' is visually distinctive for its narrow, dark green leaves with heavy rippled margins, variegated coloration, and unusually tall scapes that rise three to four times the height of the foliage mound.
In the Garden
'Tentacles' reaches approximately 9 inches (22.9 cm) in height and spreads to 25 inches (63.5 cm) in diameter, forming a stoloniferous clump with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its compact size suits it for front-of-border positions, rock gardens, or container cultivation. Companion plants such as ferns, heucheras, or small woodland perennials complement its narrow, textured leaves.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor foliage regularly and employ barriers or repellents if necessary.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 9 in (22.9 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 25 in (63.5 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 1.5 in (3.8 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 4 |
| Leaf | dark green heavy ripples margins; dull on top; slightly shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 31–37 in (78.7–94.0 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Don Stevens' — H. ‘Don Stevens’
- Pollen parent: H. 'Sea Octopus' — H. ‘Sea Octopus’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-1, small size):
- H. ‘Kokuryu’ (2000)
- H. ‘Temple Bells’ (1992)
- H. ‘Bridegroom’ (1990)
- H. ‘Nellie Grey’ (2002)
- H. ‘Spartan Gem’ (1989)
- H. ‘Midnight Ride’ (2004)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5650