H. ‘Whirlwind Flame’

Overview

Registered in 2014 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Whirlwind Tour', 'Whirlwind Flame' is a small-sized hosta distinguished by its intensely twisted, pure white leaf centers bordered by dark green, slightly rippled margins. The leaves are ovate with cordate bases, measure 6 inches (15.2 cm) long and 4 inches (10.2 cm) wide, and bear eight vein pairs; the upper surface is slightly shiny while the underside is dull.

In the Garden

'Whirlwind Flame' forms a slow-growing, mound-like clump reaching 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the white leaf centers remain most stable and are less prone to scorching. This small cultivar is well suited for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, and pairs effectively with fine-textured shade perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, but avoid waterlogged soil. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage the foliage; monitor regularly and employ control measures as needed.