H. ‘Wrinkles and Crinkles’

Overview

Registered in 1985 by L. Englerth, this medium-sized cultivar is distinguished by its variegated foliage with green margins and heavily textured, puckered leaf surfaces that give rise to its descriptive name. The parentage is unknown, but the leaf characteristics—9.5 inches (24.1 cm) long and 5.75 inches (14.6 cm) wide with 14 vein pairs—produce a dense, rounded clump.

In the Garden

Reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and spreading to 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter, 'Wrinkles and Crinkles' forms a substantial mound suitable for mid-border positions or as a groundcover beneath deciduous trees. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the textured leaves contrast well with finer-textured ferns or broad-leaved companions such as Heuchera or Tiarella. The 31-inch (78.7 cm) scapes bear lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and apply controls as needed.