Picasso Hosta

The Hosta 'Picasso' is a popular small cultivar prized for its striking blue-green leaves and contrasting chartreuse margins. Registered by Mark Zilis in 2011, it is a tissue culture sport of H. 'Indigo' and is valued for maintaining its intense blue color later into the season than many other varieties.

Key Characteristics

• Foliage: The leaves are lance-shaped, intensely blue-green with a narrow chartreuse (gold) border. They feature a wavy margin and "good substance," which provides natural resistance to slugs.
• Size: At maturity, it typically reaches about 8 inches tall and spreads to approximately 18 inches wide.
• Flowers: It produces near-white, tubular flowers that bloom on 10- to 12-inch scapes from late July through mid-August. 
  

Care and Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers partial to full shade. While it can tolerate some morning sun—which may even brighten the leaf edges—it should be protected from harsh midday sun to avoid leaf burn.
• Soil: Flourishes in moist, rich, organic, and well-drained soil. It does not tolerate standing water or "wet feet".
• Hardiness: Suitable for USDA Zones 3–9. It requires a period of winter dormancy with temperatures below 40°F for at least 30–40 days.
• Maintenance: Apply a layer of organic mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges