H. ‘Goblin’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, 'Goblin' is a small-sized hosta distinguished by its grayish green, slightly rippled leaf margins and dull-surfaced, ovate leaves with rounded bases. The cultivar forms a flat mound 20 inches (50.8 cm) tall and 58 inches (147.3 cm) in diameter, with variegated foliage and grayish green scapes reaching 40 to 50 inches (101.6 to 127.0 cm) in height.

In the Garden

'Goblin' performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its compact size makes it suitable for rock gardens, woodland borders, or container plantings. Its mature spread of nearly 5 feet (147.3 cm) is unusually wide for a small hosta, providing effective ground cover beneath deciduous trees or alongside ferns, heucheras, and small bulbs. The relatively tall scapes, rising well above the foliage, carry pale flowers that attract pollinators.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, monitor for slug and deer damage, though the dull leaf surface may offer slight resistance to feeding.