Hosta 'Curly Fries'

Hosta 'Curly Fries': A Whimsical Ripple of Chartreuse

Fun, funky, and full of texture, Hosta 'Curly Fries' is a petite standout with narrow, rippling leaves in bright chartreuse. Its heavily ruffled foliage forms a tidy, low mound that practically glows in the shade, especially when sited to catch morning sun. Lavender flowers appear on dark purple scapes in midsummer, adding vertical contrast to its swirling base.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 15–20 cm
• Spread: 30–40 cm, compact and finely textured
• Flower Colour: Lavender
• Flowering Period: Midsummer
• Foliage: Narrow, highly ruffled leaves in bright chartreuse; excellent substance
• Sunlight Requirements: Partial to full shade; best colour in morning sun
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, fertile soil

Uses and Benefits: Hosta 'Curly Fries' adds playful texture and vivid colour to shady nooks, containers, and the front of the border. Its unusual foliage shape provides contrast to broader-leaved hostas and ferns, while its compact habit makes it perfect for tight spaces. A pollinator magnet when in bloom, this small-scale hosta is both tough and charming—ideal for modern and cottage-style gardens alike.

Companion Plants: Plant Hosta 'Curly Fries' with Athyrium 'Regal Red', whose deep-hued stems and finely divided fronds offer elegant contrast. Pair with Heucherella 'Eye Spy' for delicate pink spring flowers and warm-toned foliage. Round out the trio with Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola', a golden grass whose arching form complements the hosta’s rippling leaves and adds graceful movement.

Care Instructions: Provide partial shade and moist, rich soil. Allow morning sun for best leaf colour, but protect from hot afternoon exposure. Water during dry periods and mulch to retain moisture. Clean up old foliage in early spring and divide every 3–4 years to refresh the clump and maintain its neat shape.

History: Hosta 'Curly Fries' was introduced by Bob Solberg and quickly became a favourite for its unique leaf shape and bold colour. Winner of the 2016 American Hosta Growers Hosta of the Year, it remains a beloved choice for collectors and small-space gardeners.

Final Thoughts: Spirited and compact, Hosta 'Curly Fries' delivers eye-catching foliage and enduring charm. Whether in a container or tucked along a shaded path, it offers a twist of brilliance wherever it grows.