H. ‘Great Lakes’

Overview

Registered in 1973 by E. Fisher, this giant variegated hosta is a hybrid of *H. 'Frances Williams'. Its most distinctive feature is the broad gray leaf margins that frame the green blade center, with leaf undersides appearing whitish. The cordate leaf base and substantial leaf dimensions—14 inches long by 13 inches wide—contribute to its bold appearance.

In the Garden

'Great Lakes' reaches a mature spread of 40 inches (101.6 cm) and a height of 30 inches (76.2 cm), making it suitable as a specimen plant or as a focal point in a mixed border. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the gray marginal variegation remains most pronounced. Companion plants with contrasting foliage textures, such as ferns or *Heuchera*, complement its broad leaves. Its large size precludes container cultivation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor regularly and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.