A 1991 registration by
Wm and Eleanor Lachman, it is a
hybrid of "Lachman Seedling L81-1" (unnamed seedling x H. 'Flamboyant')
x "Lachman Seedling L81-9-2" (H. 'Beatrice' seedling x H. 'Frances Williams'). Its name reflects the fact that it has red flower scapes and purple flowers in late season.
This is a medium size hosta about
12 inches high with a spread of around 28 inches. The dark green
foliage has a yellow medial (center) variegation which turns
white as the season progresses. Its leaves are elliptic, have
smooth texture and are shiny on top. Pale purple flowers bloom
from mid-July into August. It sets seeds in bright red pods.
According to
The Hostapedia by Mark Zilis (2009), "When grown properly, 'Cherry Berry' becomes an
attractive mound of white-centered foliage that produces purple
flowers on bright red scapes. Unfortunately, it has proven to be a
finicky grower. I've seen some beautiful specimens, but I've also
heard many people complain that they cannot get 'Cherry Berry' to
reach maturity."
The New Encyclopedia of Hostas by
Diana
Grenfell (2009) states in its Hosta Hybrids for Connoisseurs chapter: "Very
susceptible to pest damage. A tricolor effect is often visible
on the leaves in early to midsummer making it worthwhile to give
this hosta special care. The burgundy-red scapes and red
seedpods are other reasons to persevere."
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