H. ‘Babbling Brook’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek, this giant blue-green hosta results from a cross between *H.* 'Donahue Piecrust' and *H. pycnophylla*, with *H.* 'Regal Ruffles' as the pollen parent. Its most distinctive features are the deeply rippled, moderately corrugated leaf margins and the dull, glaucous bloom on the leaf undersides.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 66 inches (168 cm) and height of 29 inches (74 cm), 'Babbling Brook' commands substantial space in the shade garden. Its semi-upright, moderate growth habit and large, broadly ovate leaves with cordate bases make it a structural presence; it pairs well with ferns, *Heuchera*, and other bold-textured shade perennials. The green scapes, which are very recumbent, rise to 32 inches (81 cm) but may not hold flowers upright.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in typical hosta-growing zones, and apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. The thick, corrugated leaves offer moderate resistance to slugs, though deer may browse the foliage.