H. ‘Cosmic Hippie’

Overview

Registered in 2006, 'Cosmic Hippie' is a large hosta cultivar resulting from a cross between *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict' and a seedling of the same parent. Its most distinctive feature is the leaf coloration: green centers irregularly streaked with greenish yellow, surrounded by flat creamy white margins, on broadly ovate leaves with cordate bases.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter and 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height. Its large leaves, measuring 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) long and 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide with 13 to 15 vein pairs, are dull on both surfaces. The scapes rise 20 to 24 inches (50.8 to 61.0 cm) above the foliage. 'Cosmic Hippie' performs well in partial to full shade, as typical for hostas, and pairs effectively with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or in the middle to back of shaded borders.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While hostas are generally susceptible to slugs and deer, 'Cosmic Hippie' is noted for good seed set and viability, making it a useful parent for breeding work.