H. ‘Alligator Hide’

Overview

Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Alligator Hide' is a giant cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, with *H.* 'Bressingham Blue' as the pod parent. It is visually distinctive for its extremely symmetrical, intensely corrugated (seersucker) leaves of medium blue-green with a glaucous bloom, broad ovate shape, and heavy substance.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches a mature spread of 65 inches (165.1 cm) in diameter and a height of 28 inches (71.1 cm), with a fast growth rate and mound-like habit. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hostas, and its large, textured leaves make it a strong specimen plant for the middle to back of a border. The light lavender flowers on scapes up to 26 inches (66.0 cm) provide modest late-summer interest. It pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials that contrast with its bold foliage.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The heavy-textured leaves offer some resistance to slugs, though monitoring is still advisable in damp conditions.