H. ‘Birth of the Blues’

Overview

Registered in 2005, this large hosta cultivar originates as an open-pollinated seedling from *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict'. 'Birth of the Blues' is distinguished by its deeply corrugated, nearly round blue-green leaves with white margins, which display irregular streaking in multiple colors including light green, medium green, dark green, greenish yellow, pale yellow, and creamy white. The leaf undersides bear a glaucous bloom, and the distinctive coloration persists through the growing season.

In the Garden

'Birth of the Blues' reaches approximately 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height and 23 inches (58.4 cm) in diameter, with an upright growth habit and moderate rate of expansion. It performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical of most hostas, where the blue-green leaf tones and variegation develop fully. The substantial, heavily textured foliage provides contrast alongside finer-leaved perennials such as ferns, *Heuchera*, or *Tiarella*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during establishment and throughout dry periods; apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as the broad, corrugated leaves may be attractive to both pests.