H. ‘Clown Belly’
Hosta ‘Clown Belly’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2010 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-7 (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 2010, *Hosta* 'Clown Belly' is a medium-sized hybrid between *H.* 'Dorset Clown' (pod parent) and *H.* 'Blue Belly' (pollen parent). This cultivar is visually distinguished by its dark blue-green leaves with white, streaked flat margins, a color combination that makes it notable for breeding work.
In the Garden
'Clown Belly' forms a mound 18 inches (45.7 cm) tall and 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or other shade perennials that complement its dark foliage. Its medium size suits it for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded beds.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as with most hostas.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 18 in (45.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 32 in (81.3 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8.25 in (21 cm) |
| Leaf width | 5.75 in (14.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 14 |
| Leaf | dark blue, intensely blue-green to greenish white streaked flat margins; slightly shiny on top; dull underneath; lightly wavy, lightly corrugated, lightly flat |
| Flower scape height | 27–28 in (68.6–71.1 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | nice dark blue plant for breeding |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Dorset Clown' — H. ‘Dorset Clown’
- Pollen parent: H. 'Blue Belly' — H. ‘Blue Belly’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-7, medium size):
- H. ‘Game Boy’ (2011)
- H. ‘So Nice’ (2015)
- H. ‘Dimpled Chad’ (2001)
- H. ‘Seventh Heaven’ (1994)
- H. ‘Blueberry Swirl’ (2010)
- H. ‘Chimney Rock’ (2010)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #1094