H. ‘Dark Ages’

Overview

Registered in 2004, *Hosta* 'Dark Ages' is a small-sized cultivar of unknown parentage, with *H.* 'Dark Nebula' as its seed parent. It is visually distinctive for its nearly round, heavily puckered blue-green leaves with a glaucous bloom, dark green flat margins, and moderate cupping, set on dark green scapes.

In the Garden

'Dark Ages' forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its compact size makes it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. Companion plants include ferns, *Heuchera*, and small shade-tolerant perennials that contrast with its blue-green foliage.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, especially in containers, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While 'Dark Ages' has heavy leaf substance that may deter some slugs, standard slug control measures are advisable in damp conditions; deer may browse the foliage.