H. ‘The Diplomat’
Hosta ‘The Diplomat’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2016 |
|---|---|
| Section class | IV-4b (Small) |
Overview
A sport of *Hosta* 'The Ambassador', registered in 2016, 'The Diplomat' is a small, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its medium green leaves with wide, creamy white margins that are slightly rippled and wavy. The leaf blades are ovate, lightly cupped and folded, with a moderately twisted and corrugated overall appearance.
In the Garden
'The Diplomat' reaches approximately 16 inches (40.6 cm) in diameter and 6 inches (15.2 cm) in height, with a fast growth rate that allows it to fill in quickly. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its compact size makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. Companion plants include small ferns, heucheras, and other miniature hostas that complement its white-edged foliage.
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, so monitoring and protective measures are advisable in areas where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 6 in (15.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 16 in (40.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 3 in (7.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 6 |
| Leaf | medium green with 1 to 1.5in (2.5 to 3.8cm) wide, creamy white, slightly rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath; lightly cupped, folded & corrugated, moderately twisted and wavy overall. |
| Flower scape height | 16–24 in (40.6–61.0 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | margins change from creamy white to white |
| Notable characteristics | wide creamy to white borders |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'The Ambassador' — H. ‘The Ambassador’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-4b, small size):
- H. ‘Blue Ivory’ (2009)
- H. ‘August Fire’ (2008)
- H. ‘Sydney's Spunk’ (2007)
- H. ‘Dew Drop’ (1988)
- H. ‘Bold Edger’ (1983)
- H. ‘Allan P. McConnell’ (1980)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5666