H. ‘Big Sam’

Overview

Registered in 1986 by M. Klopping and the American Hosta Society, 'Big Sam' is a giant variegated hosta of unknown parentage. It is distinguished by its large, dark green leaves with slight undulation at the margins, forming a substantial mound.

In the Garden

'Big Sam' reaches a mature diameter of 48 inches (121.9 cm) and a height of 36 inches (91.4 cm), making it suitable for use as a specimen plant or as a bold accent in shaded borders. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its foliage remains most consistent, and pairs well with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, astilbes, and heucheras. Its large size precludes container cultivation for most settings.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many large-leaved hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate barriers or deterrents.