H. ‘Alley Oop’

Overview

Registered in 2001 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Aoki', 'Alley Oop' is a small hosta distinguished by its white leaf centers variably speckled with dark green, framed by dark green, heavily rippled margins. The leaf blade is ovate with a rounded base, intensely twisted and wavy, with a corrugated green margin and a slightly shiny surface on both sides.

In the Garden

'Alley Oop' reaches a mature diameter of 17 inches (43.2 cm) and a height of 11.5 inches (29.2 cm), with an upright growth habit. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and its small size makes it well suited for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of a shaded border. Companion plants might include small ferns or shade-tolerant groundcovers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. This cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, as are most hostas, and may require protective measures.