H. ‘Bix Blues’

Overview

Registered in 2000, this medium-sized cultivar resulted from a cross between *Hosta* 'Halcyon' (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Elegans' (pollen parent). 'Bix Blues' is visually distinctive for its medium blue-green leaves with slightly rippled margins and a glaucous bloom on the upper surface, forming a dense, rounded mound.

In the Garden

'Bix Blues' reaches a mature spread of 48 inches (121.9 cm) and a height of 18 inches (45.7 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, where the glaucous bloom is best preserved. Its compact, mounded habit makes it suitable for the middle of a shaded border or as a groundcover under deciduous trees; companion plants include ferns, *Heuchera*, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick leaves offer moderate resistance to slugs and deer, though monitoring is advisable in high-pressure areas.