H. ‘Lakeside Magnetic Force’

Overview

Registered in 2006 by the Lakeside hybridizing program, *Hosta* 'Lakeside Magnetic Force' is a giant blue-green cultivar notable for its exceptionally persistent blue coloration, which holds far longer than typical blue hostas. Its parentage includes *Hosta* 'Lakeside Blue Jeans' as the pod parent and an unnamed seedling as the pollen parent.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms an upright, fast-growing clump reaching 25 inches (63.5 cm) in height and 61 inches (154.9 cm) in diameter at maturity. The intensely blue, heavily corrugated leaves measure 17 inches (43.2 cm) long by 11 inches (27.9 cm) wide, with 12 pairs of veins, ovate shape, cordate base, and a glaucous bloom on both surfaces. The blue-green scapes rise 30 to 35 inches (76.2 to 88.9 cm) above the foliage. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, where the blue color is most pronounced, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. Slugs may damage the foliage in damp conditions, though the thick, corrugated leaves offer some resistance; deer will browse the plants where present.