H. ‘Valley's Witness’

Overview

Registered in 2015, 'Valley's Witness' is a medium-sized hosta cultivar resulting from a cross between *Hosta* 'One Man's Treasure' and a seedling of *Hosta pycnophylla*. It is visually distinctive for its very shiny, dark green leaves with slightly rippled margins and dark red petioles and scapes, a combination that provides strong contrast in the garden.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a mound-like clump reaching approximately 12 inches (30.2 cm) in height and 16 inches (40.0 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. Its broadly ovate, lightly cupped leaves with deeply wavy margins and cordate bases perform best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas. The dark red scapes, which rise 16 to 24 inches (40.0 to 60.0 cm) above the foliage, make it a suitable companion for other shade perennials such as ferns, heucheras, and astilbes.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage and may require protective measures in areas where these pests are prevalent.