H. ‘Abiqua Ariel’

Overview

Registered in 1999, this medium-sized hosta cultivar was bred from *H.* 'Aspen Gold' as pod parent and a seedling of *H.* 'Golden Chimes' as pollen parent. 'Abiqua Ariel' is visually distinctive for its upright, slow-growing habit and dull, blue-green leaves with cordate bases, which contrast with the typical gold tones of its parentage.

In the Garden

'Abiqua Ariel' reaches approximately 22 inches (55.9 cm) in diameter and 8 inches (20.3 cm) in height, with scapes rising 10 to 15 inches (25.4 to 38.1 cm) tall. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials. Its compact, upright form makes it suitable for border fronts or small garden spaces, though its slow growth rate requires patience for full effect.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Abiqua Ariel' may be susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing in typical hosta-growing zones.