H. ‘James A. Garfield’

Overview

Registered in 2003 by Japanese breeder H. Sugita, this medium-sized cultivar is a hybrid between *Hosta pycnophylla* and *Hosta kiyosumiensis*. It is visually distinguished by its heavily rippled, medium green leaf margins, slightly shiny upper surfaces, and very shiny undersides, combined with greenish purple to purple scapes and spotted petioles.

In the Garden

'James A. Garfield' forms an upright clump reaching approximately 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 27.5 inches (69.9 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in partial to full shade. Its ovate leaves with flat bases, moderate waviness, and light folding and cupping pair well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The dark scapes and spotted petioles provide additional seasonal interest.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Typical hosta-growing zones apply; slug and deer resistance is not documented for this cultivar, so standard protective measures may be warranted.