H. ‘Blast Off’

Overview

Registered in 1995, 'Blast Off' is a giant hosta cultivar resulting from a cross between H. 'Mikado' (pod parent) and H. 'Dorothy Benedict' (pollen parent). It is visually distinguished by its very large, heavily textured green leaves with gold, slightly rippled margins, combined with a notably shiny upper and lower leaf surface.

In the Garden

'Blast Off' is best suited to partial to full shade, where its substantial foliage can develop without scorching. With a mature spread of 72 inches (182.9 cm) and height of 30 inches (76.2 cm), it functions as a bold specimen or background plant in large borders, requiring ample space to accommodate its fast growth rate and mound-like habit. It pairs effectively with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns or astilbes, and its size makes it unsuitable for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While slugs and deer may damage the foliage, the plant's thick leaves offer moderate resistance; standard control measures are advisable in areas with high pest pressure.