H. ‘Steffi’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Saint Elmo's Fire' registered in 2008, 'Steffi' is a small-sized cultivar distinguished by its dramatic color development. The leaves emerge with dark green centers and pure white margins, with the green deepening to an exceptionally dark shade as the season progresses, a change that occurs over a prolonged period.

In the Garden

'Steffi' reaches a mature spread of 24 inches (61.0 cm) and a height of 16 inches (40.6 cm), making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its white margins brighten darker areas. The broadly ovate, moderately flat leaves with rounded bases pair well with ferns, heucheras, and other small shade perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Steffi' may be susceptible to slug damage, though its slightly shiny leaf surface offers some resistance; deer browsing is possible in areas where deer are present.