H. ‘Blue Umbrellas’

Overview

Registered in 1978 by F. Shaw and introduced by P. Aden, 'Blue Umbrellas' is a giant hosta cultivar distinguished by its exceptionally large, heavily textured blue-green leaves with blue margins. The leaves reach 14 inches (35.6 cm) in length and 10 inches (25.4 cm) in width, with 18 vein pairs, forming a substantial mound 54 inches (137.2 cm) in diameter and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in height.

In the Garden

This cultivar is best suited to partial to full shade, where its blue coloration holds best. At maturity, it forms a massive, rounded clump ideal as a specimen or focal point in larger shade gardens, woodland borders, or as a groundcover in spacious areas. Its size makes it unsuitable for containers; companion plants should be shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, astilbes, or heucheras that contrast with its broad, blue-green foliage.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many large-leaved hostas, 'Blue Umbrellas' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; regular monitoring and protective measures are recommended in typical hosta-growing zones.