H. ‘Mark Anthony’

Overview

Registered in 2004, *Hosta* 'Mark Anthony' is a giant cultivar resulting from a cross between a seedling of *H.* 'Dorothy Benedict' and *H.* 'Gold Regal'. Its visual distinction lies in the subtle contrast between blue-green leaf centers and gold margins, a combination that becomes more pronounced as the season progresses.

In the Garden

'Mark Anthony' forms a slow-growing, mound-like clump reaching 38 inches (96.5 cm) in diameter and 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its large, broadly ovate leaves with cordate bases and moderate corrugation develop their characteristic coloration. The 22 to 24 inch (55.9 to 61.0 cm) scapes bear greenish yellow flowers in midsummer. This giant hosta is well suited as a specimen plant or as a bold accent in shaded borders and woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick, glaucous leaves offer some resistance to slugs, though monitoring is advisable in damp conditions.