Tootie Mae Hosta

Tootie Mae is a medium-sized, variegated hosta cultivar highly valued for its striking color contrast and thick, slug-resistant foliage. It was discovered by Alan Bearden of Alabama and named after his wife's childhood nickname.

Key Characteristics

• Foliage: Rounded, heavily corrugated, and slightly cupped blue-green leaves with exceptionally wide, bright gold margins.
• Flowers: Produces near-white, tube-shaped flowers on 20-inch scapes in early to mid-summer.
• Size: Typically matures to a height of 14–18 inches and a spread of 28–40 inches.
• Growth Rate: Known as a slow grower, often taking 4–8 years to reach full maturity. 
  

Growing & Care Tips

• Light: Thrives in partial to full shade. While it can tolerate some morning sun, direct afternoon sun may burn the gold margins.
• Soil: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained organic soil with a slightly acidic pH (6.0–6.5).
• Watering: Requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Hardiness: Suitable for USDA Zones 3a to 7b.
• Maintenance: Cut back foliage after it dies back in late autumn or winter to maintain garden hygiene.