Hosta 'Tattoo': Unique Green Leaves with Dark Purple Petioles

Hosta 'Tattoo': The Inked Hosta with Purple Stems

Hosta 'Tattoo' (PP11603), hybridized by Avent and introduced in 1998, is unique in the hosta world for its dark purple to nearly black petioles (leaf stems) that extend partway up the leaf veins—like tattoo ink bleeding into the leaf. Combined with its glossy green foliage, it's a striking, modern cultivar.

Inked Petioles and Veins

The leaves are medium-large, 8–10 inches long, ovate, glossy, medium to dark green. The petioles are intensely dark purple-black, and this coloration bleeds into the base of the midrib and primary veins, creating a "tattooed" effect. The contrast is striking and unusual. The plant forms a neat mound 1.5–2 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. Pale lavender flowers in midsummer.

Novel Trait

Purple petioles occur in some hostas, but 'Tattoo' is exceptional for the intensity and extent of the coloration into the leaf blade. It's a conversation piece and a breeding breakthrough. Standard culture: morning sun to shade, moist soil, zones 3–9.

Taxonomic Profile

• Family: Liliaceae
• Genus: Hosta
• Cultivar: 'Tattoo' (PP11603)
• Hybridizer: Avent
• Introduced: 1998

Modern Edge

'Tattoo' brings a contemporary, edgy aesthetic to the shade garden. The dark stems and veining create graphic lines. Pair with silver, chartreuse, or variegated companions. A cultivar for gardeners who appreciate unusual foliar details.