This cultivar was registered by Bob Kuk of Kuk's Forest in Ohio in Ohio in 1991 as an open-pollinated seedling of H. 'Neat Splash'. It forms a medium size (14 inches high) mound of dark green foliage with a white marginal variegation. Deep purple, funnel-shaped flowers appear from mid-July into August.

According to The Hostapedia by Mark Zilis (2009), "Its combination of attractive white-margined foliage, purple flowers, and a good growth rate makes 'Cordelia' an outstanding choice as a ground cover or specimen plant."

The New Encyclopedia of Hostas by Diana Grenfell (2009) states: "A rapid grower with outstanding flowers. Ideal in light woodland or a border accompanied by ferns."