H. ‘Heartbeat’

Overview

Registered in 1999, *Hosta* 'Heartbeat' is a medium-sized cultivar derived from a cross between *Hosta* 'Liberty Bell' and *Hosta* 'Dorset Blue'. It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves edged with creamy white to golden yellow margins, which are slightly rippled and bear a glaucous bloom on the undersides.

In the Garden

'Hearthbeat' forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching approximately 31 inches (78.7 cm) in diameter and 11 inches (27.9 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the leaf coloration remains most stable, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or mixed shade beds, though it is not typically recommended for container culture due to its spread.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.