H. ‘Dark Waters’
Hosta ‘Dark Waters’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2005 |
|---|---|
| Section class | II-1 (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2005 from unknown parentage, *Hosta* 'Dark Waters' is a large, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its heavily rippled, dark green leaf margins and deeply domed, corrugated leaf surface. The broadly ovate leaves, measuring 12 inches (30.5 cm) long by 9 inches (22.9 cm) wide, exhibit a slightly shiny upper surface and dull underside, with 15 to 16 vein pairs and a cordate base.
In the Garden
With a mature spread of 48 inches (121.9 cm) and height of 22 inches (55.9 cm), 'Dark Waters' forms a substantial, moderate-growing mound suitable for mid-border positions in partial to full shade. Its excellent substance and heavily textured foliage provide contrast when paired with finer-textured perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera* species. The green scapes, reaching 22 to 24 inches (55.9 to 61.0 cm), bear typical lavender flowers in midsummer.
Care Notes
Plant in well-drained, humus-rich soil with consistent moisture during the growing season; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While possessing good leaf substance, this cultivar may still require protection from slugs and deer in shaded garden settings.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 22 in (55.9 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 48 in (121.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 12 in (30.5 cm) |
| Leaf width | 9 in (22.9 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 16 |
| Leaf | dark green heavily rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; dull underneath; lightly corrugated, deeply domed |
| Flower scape height | 22–24 in (55.9–61.0 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | Heavily rippled leaf edge, corrugation, excellent substance, domed leaf |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-1, large size):
- H. ‘Foxfire Irish Moon’ (2003)
- H. ‘Aphrodite’ (2009)
- H. ‘Tracy's Emerald Cup’ (1997)
- H. ‘Willy Nilly’ (1996)
- H. ‘Ben’ (2015)
- H. ‘Duke’ (1988)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #1365