H. ‘Athena’

Overview

Registered in 2010 by R. Kuenster of the American Hosta Society, *Hosta* 'Then' is a small-sized sport of *Hosta* 'Now and Then'. It is visually distinguished by its dark green, broadly ovate leaves with creamy white margins that are slightly rippled and moderately corrugated, presenting a slightly shiny upper surface and dull underside.

In the Garden

'Hosta' is well-suited to partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and reaches a mature size of 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter with an upright growth habit and moderate growth rate. Its small stature makes it appropriate for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as an edging plant, and it pairs effectively with other small shade perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*. Container cultivation is feasible given its compact dimensions.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through standard control methods.