Hosta ‘Tears in Heaven’ is a distinctive perennial that has gained popularity among gardeners. This cultivar offers a unique aesthetic appeal, making it a desired addition to many garden designs, especially for shaded garden spaces.
Understanding Hosta ‘Tears in Heaven’
Hosta ‘Tears in Heaven’ is recognized for its unique, cascading form and intense blue foliage. Its ruffled, wedge-shaped leaves maintain their blue color late into the growing season. This hosta also features an upright growth habit, distinguishing it from other blue varieties.
It reaches about 15 inches in height and spreads to approximately 28 inches wide. In mid-summer, pale lavender flowers emerge on tall scapes, sometimes with darker patterns at the center. These delicate blooms, rising 12 to 24 inches above the foliage, attract hummingbirds.
Planting and Care Guide
Planting Hosta ‘Tears in Heaven’ requires attention to light, soil, and moisture. It thrives in partial to full shade; morning sun is tolerable and can enhance its blue coloration. Avoid hot afternoon sun, as it can be detrimental to the plant.
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. A soil pH between 5.5 and 7.5 is suitable, with sandy loam offering better aeration than clay. When planting, ensure consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, by watering regularly around the base.
Fertilize in early spring as new growth appears, using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply granular fertilizer around the base and water it in immediately to ensure even distribution and prevent leaf burn. Avoid fertilizing after mid-to-late summer to prevent new, tender growth vulnerable to frost. In northern climates, mulching with finely shredded organic material in the fall can help prevent root heaving during winter.
Addressing Common Challenges
Hosta ‘Tears in Heaven’ can face common challenges from pests and diseases. Slugs and snails are frequent pests, causing irregular holes in leaves. Apply slug bait in early spring as new shoots emerge to manage populations. Clearing hosta foliage in early winter after dormancy helps remove slug eggs and other leaf-eating insect larvae.
Hosta Virus X (HVX) is a disease manifesting as mottled, lumpy, or distorted leaves; symptoms vary by cultivar. There is currently no cure for HVX, so inspect plants carefully before introducing them. Leaf spot diseases, caused by fungi like anthracnose, appear as irregular white to tan spots with brown borders, often tattering leaves. Ensure good plant spacing and remove diseased leaves to prevent fungal spread. Environmental stressors, such as excessive direct sun, can lead to leaf scorch, characterized by browning or bleaching of leaf margins.
Integrating ‘Tears in Heaven’ in Your Garden
Hosta ‘Tears in Heaven’ integrates well into various garden settings due to its distinctive appearance. Its cascading, mounding habit makes it an excellent choice for borders, container gardening, and woodland gardens. The intense blue foliage provides a calming and elegant presence in shaded landscapes.
This hosta pairs effectively with other shade-loving plants for visually appealing compositions. Companion plants like ferns, hydrangeas, and spring bulbs (e.g., tulips or grape hyacinths) complement its unique texture and color. When planted near hydrangeas, especially blue-leaved varieties, ‘Tears in Heaven’ can create a harmonious monochromatic scheme. Its ability to tolerate urban pollution also makes it suitable for city and courtyard gardens.