H. ‘Whirlaway’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Whirlwind' registered in 2004, 'Whirlaway' is a small cultivar distinguished by its heavily twisted, ovate leaves with a narrow white center and a wide, dark green, heavily rippled margin. The leaf blade measures 4.7 inches (11.9 cm) long and 3.1 inches (7.9 cm) wide, with eight vein pairs, and the overall plant forms a mound 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) tall and 11 inches (27.9 cm) in diameter.

In the Garden

'Whirlaway' performs best in partial to dappled shade, where its white-centered leaves are less prone to scorch. Its compact size—roughly 11 inches across at maturity—makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. Companion plants with dark foliage, such as heucheras or ferns, provide contrast with the cultivar's bright leaf centers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many hostas, 'Whirlaway' may be damaged by slugs and deer in typical hosta-growing zones.