H. ‘Red Sox’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, this medium-sized cultivar resulted from a cross between *Hosta longipes* f. *hypoglauca* (pod parent) and *H. 'Maruba Iwa'* (pollen parent). The most distinctive visual feature of 'Red Sox' is the irregular purple-red speckling that appears approximately halfway up the central leaf vein, contrasting with the otherwise dark green, slightly rippled leaf margins.

In the Garden

'Red Sox' forms a mound-shaped clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 24 inches (61.0 cm) in diameter at maturity. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for most hostas, and is suitable for border fronts, shade gardens, or as a specimen plant where the leaf speckling can be observed at close range. Its medium size makes it appropriate for mixed perennial beds alongside ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant companions.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are recommended, as the broad, slightly glossy leaves may be attractive to both pests in typical hosta-growing zones.