H. ‘Blue Ox’

Overview

Registered in 1999 by P. Ruh, *Hosta* 'Blue Ox' is a giant hybrid derived from *H. sieboldiana*. It is distinguished by its intensely blue-green, heavily textured leaves with slightly rippled margins, a dull upper surface, and a glaucous bloom beneath.

In the Garden

'Blue Ox' reaches a mature diameter of 27.5 inches (69.9 cm) and a height of 19 inches (48.3 cm), with an upright, moderate growth habit. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue coloration is most pronounced. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or groundcover in woodland gardens, paired with ferns or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. While slug and deer resistance is not absolute, the thick, glaucous leaves offer moderate deterrence; monitor for damage in damp conditions.