H. ‘Ice Age Trail’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Big Daddy' registered in 2003, 'Ice Age Trail' is a large, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with wide, flat margins that are misted and streaked in light green, gold, and creamy white. The heavily corrugated, broadly ovate leaves with cordate bases exhibit a glaucous bloom on both surfaces, with the upper surface losing its bloom early in the season.

In the Garden

Reaching 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter and 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height, 'Ice Age Trail' forms a slow-growing, dense mound suitable for partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones. Its substantial size and bold variegation make it effective as a specimen or in mixed shade borders, where it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The 20- to 24-inch (50.8–61.0 cm) scapes, streaked green and white, bear lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during establishment, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate management may be necessary.