H. ‘Iwa Shimizu’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, 'Iwa Shimizu' is a miniature hosta derived from a form of *Hosta longipes*. It is visually distinctive for its narrow, lanceolate leaves—4 inches long and 1 inch wide—which are green with creamy yellow to white streaking margins, and possess a slightly shiny upper surface with four to five vein pairs.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 10 inches (25.4 cm) in height and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade and is well-suited for rock gardens, troughs, or the front of shaded borders. Its miniature size makes it an excellent choice for container cultivation, where its narrow, variegated foliage can be appreciated at close range. Companion plants might include small ferns or dwarf woodland perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, monitor for slug and deer damage, though the narrow leaves may be less appealing to some pests.