H. ‘Charles’

Overview

Registered in 2014 by J. Schwarz as a sport of *Hosta* 'George W.', 'Charles' is a giant blue-green cultivar distinguished by its intensely corrugated, broadly ovate leaves with dark green, slightly rippled margins and a glaucous bloom on the undersides. The plant forms an upright, vase-shaped habit with leaves measuring 14 inches (35.6 cm) long and 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide, bearing 15 vein pairs and a slightly shiny upper surface.

In the Garden

'Charles' reaches a mature diameter of 34 inches (86.4 cm) and a height of 30 inches (76.2 cm), with scapes extending 33 to 35 inches (83.8 to 88.9 cm) above the foliage. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green coloration and corrugated texture are most pronounced. This giant hosta serves as a bold specimen or backdrop in woodland gardens and mixed shade borders, pairing well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer deterrents are advisable, as the large, textured leaves are attractive to both pests.