H. ‘Willy Nilly’
Hosta ‘Willy Nilly’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by P. Ruh.
| Year registered | 1996 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | P. Ruh |
| Section class | II-1 (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 1996 by Paul Ruh, this large hosta cultivar of unknown parentage is distinguished by its gray-green leaves with slightly rippled margins and a waxy upper surface. The upright, slow-growing plant produces deep green scapes and variegated foliage.
In the Garden
With a mature spread of 29 inches (73.7 cm) and height of 18 inches (45.7 cm), 'Willy Nilly' is suited to partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones. Its large, rounded leaves with 14 vein pairs provide textural contrast when paired with ferns, heucheras, or fine-leaved grasses. The upright habit makes it appropriate for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded beds.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer climates, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While hostas are generally susceptible to slugs and deer, the waxy leaf surface may offer some resistance to slug damage.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 18 in (45.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 29 in (73.7 cm) |
| Leaf length | 11 in (27.9 cm) |
| Leaf width | 8.25 in (21 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 14 |
| Leaf | gray green slightly rippled margins; waxy on top; dull underneath |
| Flower scape height | 15–20 in (38.1–50.8 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Willy Nilly’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Lean on Me’ (sport)
- H. ‘Headliner’ (seedling (pod parent))
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-1, large size):
- H. ‘Tracy's Emerald Cup’ (1997)
- H. ‘Foxfire Irish Moon’ (2003)
- H. ‘Duke’ (1988)
- H. ‘Nakaimo’ (1986)
- H. ‘Pioneer’ (1984)
- H. ‘Aphrodite’ (2009)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #6145