H. ‘Whirligig’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek for the American Hosta Society, 'Whirligig' is a small-sized hosta cultivar of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with creamy white to chartreuse margins that mature to medium green, combined with moderately rippled, dark green leaf edges and a glaucous bloom on the undersides.

In the Garden

'Whirligig' forms a semi-upright clump reaching 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter. Its small stature and lightly cupped, ovate leaves with rounded bases make it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or as an edging plant. It pairs well with other small perennials such as heucheras or ferns, and performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Whirligig' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.