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.