H. ‘Purple Ben’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek through the American Hosta Society, this medium-sized cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 22 inches (55.9 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter. Its distinguishing feature is variegated foliage: narrowly ovate to ovate leaves measuring 8.25 inches (21.0 cm) long by 3.8 inches (9.7 cm) wide, with green, slightly rippled margins, a lightly corrugated surface, and eight pairs of veins.

In the Garden

This cultivar performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical of most hostas, where its variegated leaves maintain contrast without scorching. At a mature spread of 30 inches (76.2 cm), it functions as a mid-border specimen or ground cover beneath deciduous trees, pairing well with ferns, heucheras, and shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size suits both in-ground planting and large containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor foliage regularly and apply barriers or repellents as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.