H. ‘Iron Curtain’

Overview

Registered in 2000, this medium-sized hosta cultivar resulted from a cross involving *Hosta* 'Northern Halo' as the pod parent. 'Iron Curtain' is visually distinguished by its blue-green leaves with slightly rippled margins, a dull upper surface, and a glaucous bloom on the underside, forming a dense mound.

In the Garden

'Iron Curtain' reaches a mature spread of approximately 36 inches (91.4 cm) and a height of 16 inches (40.6 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It is best suited to partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and performs well in woodland borders or shaded perennial beds. Its medium size and mound form make it a suitable companion for ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials, though it is not typically recommended for container cultivation due to its spread.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Iron Curtain' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate deterrents may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.