H. ‘Maid in the Shade’

Overview

Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Maid in the Shade' is a medium-sized cultivar resulting from an open-pollinated cross with *Hosta* 'On Stage' as the pod parent. Its distinguishing feature is a green leaf blade with a narrow, pale yellow margin, creating a bicolored appearance that is further enhanced by a slight ripple along the leaf edge and a very shiny lower leaf surface.

In the Garden

'Maid in the Shade' forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching approximately 19 inches (48.3 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter at maturity, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded beds. The pale yellow margins and green center combine well with dark-leaved perennials such as Heuchera or ferns.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While slug and deer resistance is not specifically documented for this cultivar, standard hosta precautions against these pests are advisable in typical hosta-growing zones.