H. ‘Woodland Elf’

Overview

Registered in 2005, *Hosta* 'Woodland Elf' is a miniature cultivar derived from a cross between *H.* 'Little Wonder' (pod parent) and *H.* 'Popo' (pollen parent). It forms a dense, very flat mound 1.75 inches (4.4 cm) tall and 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide, with ovate leaves that are light green with creamy white margins; the marginal variegation continues down the petiole to the base of the plant.

In the Garden

'Woodland Elf' performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and reaches a mature spread of about 10 inches (25 cm) with a height of less than 2 inches. Its miniature size and rapid growth rate make it suitable for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders, where it can be paired with other small perennials such as *Heuchera* or *Tiarella*. The cultivar is also well suited to container cultivation, given its compact dimensions.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many hostas, 'Woodland Elf' may be susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing, though its small, low-growing habit may reduce exposure in some settings.