H. ‘Blue Clown’

AI-generated watercolor illustration of Hosta 'Blue Clown' (not a photograph)
AI-generated watercolor illustration by The Hosta Farm — not a photograph of this cultivar. How we use images

Hosta ‘Blue Clown’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by H. & D. Benedict.

Year registered1996
OriginatorH. & D. Benedict
RegistrantJ. & E. Stratton
Section classIV-2 (Small)

Overview

Registered in 1996 by H. & D. Benedict and later registered by J. & E. Stratton, 'Blue Clown' is a small hosta derived from a self-cross of 'Dorset Blue'. The cultivar is distinguished by its intensely blue-green leaves with a prominent glaucous bloom on both surfaces, rounded leaf bases, and a compact, mound-like habit.

In the Garden

'Blue Clown' reaches a mature diameter of 21 inches (53.3 cm) and a height of 7 inches (17.8 cm), making it suitable for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container culture. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of blue-leaved hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or small woodland perennials. Its slow growth rate and small size make it an excellent choice for troughs or small shaded nooks.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many blue-leaved hostas, 'Blue Clown' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.

This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.

Size and leaf

Clump height7 in (17.8 cm)
Clump width21 in (53.3 cm)
Leaf length6 in (15.2 cm)
Leaf width4 in (10.2 cm)
Vein pairs7
Leafglaucous bloom on top; glaucous bloom underneath
Flower scape height12 in (30.5 cm)

From the American Hosta Society Registry record.

Parentage

Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Blue Clown’ as a parent:

Similar cultivars

Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (IV-2, small size):

Related guides

Registration data: AHS Registry #595. How we check this data.