H. ‘Amber Waves of Grain’
Hosta ‘Amber Waves of Grain’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2003 |
|---|---|
| Section class | I-5b (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 2003, 'Amber Waves of Grain' is a giant hosta cultivar derived from a first-generation seedling of Hosta 'Dorothy Benedict' with an unknown pollen parent. It is visually distinctive for its upright, heavily rippled leaves with blue-green centers and wide, greenish-yellow margins that contrast against the dark green blade.
In the Garden
This cultivar reaches a mature spread of 51 inches (129.5 cm) and a height of 29 inches (73.7 cm), with scapes extending 45 to 48 inches (114.3 to 121.9 cm) above the foliage. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and benefits from consistent moisture. The substantial, white-backed leaves with heavy substance make it a strong specimen plant for the middle to back of a shaded border; it pairs well with ferns, Heuchera, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its large size precludes container cultivation.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor and manage as needed.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 29 in (73.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 51 in (129.5 cm) |
| Leaf length | 13.25 in (33.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 10.25 in (26 cm) |
| Leaf | dark green with .5 to 1.5in (1.3 to 3.8cm) wide, greenish yellow, heavily rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; glaucous bloom underneath; and moderately flat |
| Flower scape height | 45–48 in (114.3–121.9 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | upright, white-backed, heavy substance and yellow rippled margins |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: F-1 seedling of H. 'Dorothy Benedict' — H. ‘Dorothy Benedict’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-5b, giant size):
- H. ‘Liberty’ (2000)
- H. ‘David A. Haskell’ (1999)
- H. ‘Frances Williams’ (1986)
- H. ‘Bottom Line’ (2003)
- H. ‘Great Arrival’ (2003)
- H. ‘Sum of All’ (2003)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #219. How we check this data.