H. ‘Special Item’

Overview

Registered in 1999 by P. Ruh, this large blue-green hosta arose as a hybrid of *H. 'Fortunei Gigantea'*. It is visually distinguished by its substantial cordate leaves, which bear a pronounced glaucous bloom on both surfaces and exhibit slightly rippled margins.

In the Garden

*Hosta 'Special Item'* forms a slow-growing, mound-like clump reaching approximately 34 inches (86.4 cm) in diameter and 18.5 inches (47.0 cm) in height. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its large blue-green foliage provides a strong textural contrast when paired with finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or mid-border accent in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many large-leaved hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be monitored.