H. ‘Tiffney's Darth Vader’

Overview

Registered in 1999 as a sport of an unnamed parent, Hosta 'Tiffney's Darth Vader' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its dark green leaves with heavy, rippled margins and contrasting shiny undersides. The leaves measure 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) long and 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide, with seven vein pairs and rounded bases, forming a dense, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches a mature spread of 45 inches (114.3 cm) and a height of 21 inches (53.3 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and is well-suited for border plantings, woodland gardens, or as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees. Its compact, mounded form pairs effectively with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor regularly and use barriers or repellents as needed.