H. ‘Azure Waves’

Overview

Registered in 2011, *Hosta* 'Azure Waves' is a medium-sized cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, derived from *Hosta* 'Azure Snow'. It is distinguished by its heavy, rippled leaf margins and a pronounced azure blue cast to the foliage early in the growing season, which fades to blue-green as the season progresses.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 42 inches (106.7 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It is best sited in partial to light shade, where its glaucous leaf undersides and slightly shiny upper surfaces are most visible. The 16- to 19-inch (40.6–48.3 cm) azure blue scapes bear flowers typical of the genus. 'Azure Waves' pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials in borders or woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur, though the heavy leaf texture offers some resistance.