H. ‘Cowabunga’
Hosta ‘Cowabunga’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2010 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-4a (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 2010 by an unknown breeder, 'Cowabunga' is a medium-sized hosta distinguished by its lime green to yellow leaf centers framed by creamy white, slightly rippled margins. The ovate, moderately cupped leaves exhibit a slight shine above and dull finish below, with 11 vein pairs and a cordate base, contributing to a subtle folded and lightly wavy appearance.
In the Garden
'Cowabunga' reaches 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter, with an upright, moderate growth habit. It tolerates considerable sun exposure, making it suitable for brighter positions than many hostas, though it performs best in typical hosta-growing zones with well-drained soil. Its heavy substance and compact form pair well with ferns, heucheras, or shade-tolerant grasses, and it is appropriate for border fronts or container plantings given its medium size.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially in sunnier sites, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The heavy leaf substance provides some resistance to slugs, but standard preventive measures are advisable in damp conditions.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 18 in (45.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 30 in (76.2 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8.5 in (21.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 5.5 in (14 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 11 |
| Leaf | lime green to yellow with .25 to .5in (0.6 to 1.3cm) wide, creamy white, slightly rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; dull underneath; moderately cupped, moderately folded, lightly wavy |
| Flower scape height | 22–30 in (55.9–76.2 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | moves from lime green to yellow as season progresses |
| Notable characteristics | slightly wavy leaves that have a nice fold; cream edge on lime green center; takes much sun; heavy substance; has a 'glow.' |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-4a, medium size):
- H. ‘Citation’ (1980)
- H. ‘Aspen Breeze’ (2009)
- H. ‘Delta Dawn’ (2009)
- H. ‘Fashionista’ (2011)
- H. ‘Gosan Moon Skirt’ (2009)
- H. ‘Hoosier Homecoming’ (2009)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #1228