H. ‘Blue Lightning’

Overview

Registered in 2005, *Hosta* 'Blue Lightning' is a sport of *Hosta* 'Blue Umbrellas' distinguished by its blue-green leaves with white margins and a fast growth rate. The foliage is heavily streaked with blue, green, yellow, and cream tones, and both leaf surfaces bear a glaucous bloom.

In the Garden

This medium-sized cultivar forms a mound 14 inches (35.6 cm) tall and 24 inches (61.0 cm) in diameter, with leaves 9 inches (22.9 cm) long and 4.5 inches (11.4 cm) wide. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, and its rapid spread makes it suitable for filling gaps in shaded borders or woodland gardens. Companion plants include ferns, *Heuchera*, and *Astilbe*.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods to maintain consistent soil moisture, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. The glaucous foliage may be susceptible to slug damage in humid conditions, and deer browsing is possible in typical hosta-growing zones.