H. ‘Aksarben’

Overview

Registered in 1988 by J. Geissler and P. Ruh, *Hosta* 'Aksarben' is a large, blue-green cultivar derived from the pod parent *Hosta* 'Tokudama' and the pollen parent *Hosta sieboldiana*. It is distinguished by its substantial, heavily textured leaves and a compact, mounded habit that reaches approximately 21 inches in height and 26 inches in diameter. The leaf blades measure 12 inches in length and 9.25 inches in width, with 17 pairs of veins and a blue-green margin.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Aksarben' performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage retains its color without scorching. The leaves are thick and corrugated, providing a coarse texture that contrasts well with finer-leaved perennials such as ferns, *Heuchera*, or *Tiarella*. Its compact, mounded form makes it suitable for the middle to front of a shaded border, and it can also be grown in large containers if provided with adequate moisture and drainage. The scape rises to 28 inches, bearing pale lavender flowers in midsummer, though the primary ornamental value lies in the foliage.

Care Notes

This cultivar requires consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and benefits from a rich, well-draining soil amended with organic matter. Slugs and deer may cause damage to the foliage, and regular monitoring or protective measures are advisable. Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formulation; *Hosta* 'Aksarben' is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, though specific zone tolerance should be confirmed with local references.