H. ‘American Gladiator’

Overview

Registered in 2007, 'American Gladiator' is a giant hosta cultivar resulting from a cross between a Hosta 'William Lachman' seedling (pod parent) and Hosta 'Love Pat' (pollen parent). It is visually distinguished by its large, nearly round, blue-green leaves with wide, flat, gold margins and moderate corrugation.

In the Garden

'American Gladiator' forms a substantial mound, reaching 23 inches (58.4 cm) in height and 47 inches (119.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It is best suited for partial to full shade, where its glaucous blue-green leaf centers contrast with the yellow margins. Its large size makes it appropriate as a specimen or in the middle to back of a shaded border; it is not suitable for containers due to its mature dimensions.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While typical hosta-growing zones are suitable, standard precautions against slugs and deer are advisable, as the broad, textured leaves can be attractive to both.