H. ‘Ben’

Overview

Registered in 2015 by M. Zilis and J. Schwarz, *Hosta* 'Ben' is a large, upright cultivar of unknown parentage distinguished by its heavily rippled, medium green leaves with wide, piecrust-like margins and a twisted leaf tip. The foliage is slightly shiny above and very shiny beneath, with deep corrugation and 13 vein pairs, while the flowers are uniquely swirled.

In the Garden

'Ben' reaches a mature spread of 38 inches (96.5 cm) and a height of 28 inches (71.1 cm), with an upright growth habit and fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its large size and bold leaf texture make it suitable as a specimen or in mixed border plantings; it is not recommended for containers due to its mature dimensions.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Ben' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.