H. ‘Blue Belly’

Overview

Registered in 2006, 'Blue Belly' is a large hosta cultivar derived from a cross between a *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict' seedling (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict' (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its intensely blue-green, nearly round leaves with flat margins and cordate bases, forming a dense, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

'Blue Belly' performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and reaches a mature spread of 42 inches (106.7 cm) with a height of 22 inches (55.9 cm). Its large, cupped blue-green leaves provide strong textural contrast when paired with finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or heucheras. The tall scapes, reaching 46 to 50 inches (116.8 to 127.0 cm), bear pale lavender flowers in midsummer and add vertical interest to shaded borders or woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many blue-leaved hostas, 'Blue Belly' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor for pests and use barriers or repellents as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.