Lance-shaped, dark green leaves with feathery white centers are only the opening act for this jewel-colored hosta. In summer, bright red stems bearing lavender flowers rise above the foliage and give way to cherry-red seed pods in autumn.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Cherry Berry'

Common Name: Cherry Berry Hosta

Garden Size: 10-18 inches tall by 12-18 inches wide; scape height 28 inches

Growth Rate: Most hostas have a moderate to fast growth rate.

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Lance-shaped leaves with dark green edges and yellow-green to white centers. The variegation pattern has a feather-like shape, with a lighter green color forming where white and green overlap. Leaves grow on rosy-colored petioles.

Flowers: Purple, trumpet-shaped flowers that grow on bright red scapes above the foliage. Blooms mid to late summer. Cherry red seed pods develop in autumn.

Plant Origin: East Asia, primarily Japan and Korea. Most commercially available hostas are hybrids.

Wildlife Support: Hummingbirds and some bees enjoy the flowers. A favorite treat for our local deer.

Fertilizing: Apply compost in early spring before new growth emerges.

Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth; trim back damaged or yellowing leaves as needed. Leave the leaves over the winter and wait until early spring to clean up.

ASPCA Toxicity flags (see their site for details): Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Uses: Ideal for shade gardens, woodland borders, and container plantings.

AHS Classification: IV-6a (Small Leaved, Green or Blue Margined, Yellow, White, or Chartreuse Center)

Parentage: Hybrid of 'Lachman 82-18-1' x 'Lachman 81-9-2'