H. ‘Buckshaw Blue’

Overview

Registered in 1986 by E. Smith and the British Hosta and Hemerocallis Society, 'Buckshaw Blue' is a small blue-green hosta resulting from a cross between *H. sieboldiana* and *H.* 'Tokudama'. Its most distinctive feature is the intense blue coloration of its leaves, which are nearly round in shape (4.5 inches long and wide) with blue margins and 13 pairs of veins, forming a dense, low mound.

In the Garden

'Buckshaw Blue' reaches a mature spread of approximately 35 inches (88.9 cm) and a height of 14 inches (35.6 cm), making it suitable for the front of borders or as a groundcover in shaded areas. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue foliage holds color well, and pairs effectively with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials. Its small size also makes it appropriate for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many blue-leaved hostas, 'Buckshaw Blue' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so appropriate controls may be necessary in typical hosta-growing zones.