H. ‘Star Spangled Banner’

Overview

Registered in 2002, *Hosta* 'Star Spangled Banner' is a large cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, derived from a selfed seedling of *H.* 'Galaxy'. It is visually distinctive for its intensely blue-green, velvety leaves with broad, unstable gold margins that frequently streak into the leaf center with shades of greenish yellow, light yellow, and dark green.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches a mature height of 34 inches (86.4 cm) and a spread of 27 inches (68.6 cm), with an upright, moderately fast growth habit. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-leaved hostas, and its bold foliage makes it suitable as a specimen or in mixed shade borders. Companion plants include ferns, *Heuchera*, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While not especially prone to slug damage, standard preventative measures are advisable in damp conditions.