H. ‘Valley's Poker Face’

Overview

Registered in 2010, *Hosta* 'Valley's Poker Face' is a medium-sized variegated cultivar resulting from a cross between *H.* 'Red Sox' (pod parent) and *H. hypoleuca* (pollen parent). The plant is visually distinctive for its nearly round, lightly cupped leaves with intensely wavy margins, light green heavily rippled borders, and white undersides—a trait inherited from *H. hypoleuca*.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms an upright, moderate-growing clump reaching approximately 24 inches (60 cm) in height and 24 inches (60 cm) in diameter. The scapes rise 28 to 35 inches (70–90 cm) above the foliage, bearing green flowers in midsummer. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its compact, rounded habit makes it suitable for border fronts or shaded rock gardens.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season; apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as with most hostas, though the thick, wavy leaves may offer some resistance.