H. ‘Caliban’

Overview

Registered in 2009 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Sum and Substance', 'Caliban' was developed by P. Scolnik and D. Grenfell. This giant cultivar is distinguished by its large, broadly ovate leaves with muted yellow centers and pale green, intensely rippled to crimped margins that retain their color throughout the growing season.

In the Garden

'Caliban' reaches a mature spread of 60 inches (152.4 cm) and a height of 36 inches (91.4 cm), forming a dense, fast-growing mound. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen plant or in the middle to back of shaded borders. The muted yellow-gold centers pair well with dark-leaved companions such as *Heuchera* 'Palace Purple' or ferns. Its large leaves and tall scapes (46 to 60 inches, or 116.8 to 152.4 cm) also make it effective for underplanting beneath deciduous trees.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many large-leaved hostas, 'Caliban' is susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing, so protective measures may be necessary in gardens where these pests are prevalent.