H. ‘Dark Knight’

Overview

Registered in 2016 with the American Hosta Society, *Hosta* 'Dark Knight' is a large, upright-mounding cultivar of unknown pollen parentage, with *H.* 'Reptilian' as the pod parent. Its most distinctive feature is the combination of dark green, broadly ovate leaves with flat margins, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a very shiny underside; in early spring, the glossy pigmentation imparts an unusually deep color to the foliage.

In the Garden

'Dark Knight' reaches a mature diameter of 40 inches (101.6 cm) and a height of 26 inches (66.0 cm), with scapes rising 20 to 26 inches (50.8 to 66.0 cm). It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and its moderate growth rate and upright habit make it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in woodland gardens. The large, dark leaves provide strong contrast when paired with gold- or chartreuse-foliaged perennials such as *H.* 'Sum and Substance' or *Carex* species.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor regularly and employ control measures if needed.