H. ‘Soft Touch’

Overview

Registered in 1977 by R. Savory, *Hosta* 'Soft Touch' is a small variegated cultivar believed to be a sport of *H. nakaiana*. Its distinctive foliage features medium green margins surrounding a lighter center, with leaves measuring 4 inches (10.2 cm) long and 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide, each bearing five vein pairs.

In the Garden

'Soft Touch' forms a compact mound reaching 9 inches (22.9 cm) in height and 17 inches (43.2 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its variegated leaves remain most consistent. Companion plants include small ferns, heucheras, or other miniature hostas that share similar light and moisture requirements.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Soft Touch' may be susceptible to slug and deer damage in garden settings.