H. ‘Prairie Zephyr’

Overview

A sport of *Hosta* 'Sara's Sensation' registered in 2011, 'Prairie Zephyr' is a large, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its medium blue-green leaves with wide, chartreuse margins. The chartreuse margin color persists through much of the growing season, reducing the likelihood of marginal desiccation burn common in gold-margined hostas.

In the Garden

'Prairie Zephyr' forms a substantial mound reaching approximately 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height and 45 inches (114.3 cm) in diameter, with a slow growth rate. Its broad, heavily corrugated leaves—11 inches (27.9 cm) long by 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide—are broadly ovate with cordate bases, moderately wavy margins, and dull surfaces on both sides. The 1 to 2 inch (2.5 to 5.0 cm) wide margins are slightly rippled. This cultivar performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical for blue-green hostas. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or in mixed shade borders, paired with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, though the thick, corrugated leaf texture offers some natural resistance. Flower scapes rise 16 to 24 inches (40.6 to 61.0 cm) above the foliage in midsummer, bearing typical lavender flowers.