Hosta 'Risky Business'

Hosta 'Risky Business': A Daring Streak of White

Striking and stylish, Hosta 'Risky Business' catches the eye with bold white centres streaking through dark green, lance-shaped leaves. This reverse sport of ‘Striptease’ offers a high-contrast look with an elegant twist, maintaining a clean, upright habit and sharp variegation. Pale lavender blooms appear in midsummer, lifting above the foliage on sturdy scapes.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 40–50 cm
• Spread: 60–75 cm, with a tidy, upright habit
• Flower Colour: Pale lavender
• Flowering Period: Midsummer
• Foliage: Dark green with narrow, pure white centres; slightly wavy and lance-shaped
• Sunlight Requirements: Partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

Uses and Benefits: Hosta 'Risky Business' is perfect for adding drama and precision to shade gardens. Its bold striping draws attention along pathways and borders, and its upright habit adds structure among more relaxed forms. Ideal for small groupings or as a solo feature in a container, this hosta’s contrast-rich foliage remains fresh and defined through the season.

Companion Plants: Pair Hosta 'Risky Business' with Brunnera 'Jack Frost', whose silvery leaves enhance the hosta’s white centres. Introduce Athyrium 'Ghost' for cool, upright fronds that echo its linear elegance. Finish with Carex 'Ice Dance', whose crisp variegation and flowing habit extend the monochrome palette with grace.

Care Instructions: Grow in partial shade with consistent moisture and well-drained soil. Protect from intense afternoon sun to preserve foliage colour. Clean up old foliage in spring and divide every 4–5 years to maintain vigour and clarity of variegation.

History: Hosta 'Risky Business' is a reverse sport of the popular 'Striptease', known for its distinctive colour pattern and tidy habit. It offers a more dramatic twist on a proven classic, earning favour among collectors and designers alike.

Final Thoughts: With its crisp lines and daring contrast, Hosta 'Risky Business' brings modern flair to shaded spaces—proof that bold design can thrive in the quiet beauty of the woodland garden.