H. ‘Birchwood Blue’
Hosta ‘Birchwood Blue’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by Shaw & AHS.
| Year registered | 1986 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | Shaw & AHS |
| Section class | II-2 (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 1986 by Shaw and the American Hosta Society, 'Birchwood Blue' is a large hosta cultivar derived from a cross between Hosta sieboldiana (pod parent) and the seedling 'FRW No. 382' (pollen parent). It is distinguished by its broad, heavily textured blue-green leaves with prominent veining and a distinct blue-green margin.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a substantial mound reaching 24 inches (61.0 cm) in height and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter, with individual leaves measuring 10 inches (25.4 cm) long and 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue foliage coloration is most pronounced. Suitable companions include ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its large size makes it inappropriate for container culture.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during establishment and throughout the growing season, applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most blue-leaved hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, requiring protective measures in areas where these pests are prevalent.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 24 in (61 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 36 in (91.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
| Leaf width | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 16 |
| Flower scape height | 36 in (91.4 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. sieboldiana
- Pollen parent: H. 'FRW No. 382'
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-2, large size):
- H. ‘Aksarben’ (1988)
- H. ‘Blue Beauty’ (1986)
- H. ‘Blue Rock’ (1986)
- H. ‘Ellen F. Weissenberger’ (1986)
- H. ‘Krinkled Joy’ (1986)
- H. ‘Mary Lou’ (1986)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #518. How we check this data.