H. ‘Whitewater’

Overview

Registered in 2002, *Hosta* 'Whitewater' is a small-sized cultivar of unknown parentage. Its most distinctive feature is the striking leaf coloration: narrow, lance-shaped leaves (6 inches long by 1 inch wide) are predominantly white with green speckling concentrated along the margins, creating an unusual reverse-variegated appearance.

In the Garden

'Whitewater' performs best in partial to light shade, where its pale foliage remains crisp and does not scorch. Mature plants reach a small clump size, typically 6–8 inches in height and 12–14 inches in spread. Its diminutive stature and narrow leaves make it well-suited for trough gardens, rockeries, or the front of a shaded border, where it pairs effectively with fine-textured ferns or small sedges.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. As with many white-leaved hostas, 'Whitewater' is less vigorous than green cultivars and may be more susceptible to slug damage; monitor regularly and manage pests as needed. It is hardy in typical hosta-growing zones.