H. ‘Venetian Blue’

Overview

Registered in 2003, 'Venetian Blue' is a small hosta cultivar derived from a cross of (*H. 'Tardiflora' x H. 'Marilyn'*) back to *H. 'Tardiflora'*. It is visually distinctive for its medium blue-green leaves with a pronounced glaucous bloom on both surfaces, elliptic-ovate shape with tapered bases, and moderately wavy margins.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a compact, mound-like clump reaching 14 inches (35.6 cm) in height and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter, with a medium-fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, where the glaucous bloom is most pronounced. Its small size and tidy habit make it suitable for rock gardens, container plantings, or the front of shaded borders, where it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or other small hostas.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and use barriers or repellents as needed.