H. ‘Abiqua Blue Shield’

Overview

Registered in 1988 by Walden West, this giant blue-green cultivar forms a substantial mound of heavily textured foliage. Its most distinctive features are the broad, heavily undulated leaf margins and intense blue coloration that persists well into the growing season.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 50 inches (127 cm) and height of 22 inches (56 cm), 'Abiqua Blue Shield' requires ample space to develop its full form. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the blue leaf color remains most intense, and pairs well with other large-leaved perennials such as ferns, *Rodgersia*, and *Actaea*. Its substantial size makes it unsuitable for containers.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods to maintain leaf turgor and color intensity. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most blue-leaved hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug damage, particularly on the undulated margins, and may require protection in damp conditions. Deer resistance is typical for the species.