H. ‘Xerxes’

Overview

Registered in 2002, *Hosta* 'Xerxes' is a miniature cultivar derived from a streaked selection of *H. 'Crepe Suzette'* with an unknown pollen parent. It forms a compact, upright mound of dark green leaves with unstable white streaks and slightly rippled, white margins, reaching 4 inches (10.2 cm) in height and 9 inches (22.9 cm) in diameter.

In the Garden

This small, slow-growing hosta is best suited for partial to full shade, where its variegated foliage remains most stable. Its miniature size makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens, troughs, containers, or the front of a shaded border, where it can be paired with small ferns, heucheras, or fine-textured groundcovers. The upright mound habit and moderate growth rate allow it to fit neatly into tight spaces without overwhelming neighboring plants.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage the foliage, so monitor regularly and use barriers or repellents as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.