H. ‘Iron Gate Special’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Iron Gate Supreme', 'Iron Gate Special' was registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society. This medium-sized cultivar is distinguished by its green leaves with narrow, white, slightly rippled margins, forming a dense, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

'Iron Gate Special' performs best in partial to full shade, where its white-margined foliage remains crisp and well-defined. At maturity, the plant reaches approximately 14 inches (35.6 cm) in height and spreads to 34 inches (86.4 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border positions or as a groundcover in shaded beds. It pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its clean variegation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and employ barriers or repellents as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.