H. ‘War Bonnet’

Overview

Registered in 2013 as a sport of a seedling of unknown origin, 'War Bonnet' is a small hosta distinguished by its tricolored leaves: a light green to yellow center with a dark green margin, separated by a narrow band of lighter tissue. The broadly ovate, lightly cupped leaves measure 4 inches (10.2 cm) long by 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide and exhibit slight corrugation, twisting, and waviness, with a non-melting light center.

In the Garden

'War Bonnet' forms a compact, mound-like clump 8 inches (20.3 cm) tall and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where the gold margins remain stable; excessive sun may scorch the light center. Its small size suits the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, and it pairs well with fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns or tiarella.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs may damage young foliage, though the slightly corrugated leaf surface offers some resistance; deer will browse the leaves if accessible.