H. ‘Humpback Whale’

Overview

Registered in 2012 by C. Seaver, 'Humpback Whale' is a giant variegated hosta of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its massive, broadly ovate leaves with dark green flat margins and a moderately convex, cupped form, reaching 17 inches in length and 15 inches in width.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a large, mound-like clump up to 84 inches (213.4 cm) in diameter and 35 inches (88.9 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It is best sited in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and pairs well with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, astilbes, and heucheras. Its substantial size makes it unsuitable for containers and best used as a specimen or background plant in larger garden spaces.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. The thick leaves provide moderate resistance to slugs, though monitoring is still advisable in damp conditions.