H. ‘Dress Blues’

Overview

Registered in 1995, *Hosta* 'Dress Blues' is a small-sized cultivar derived from a cross between a seedling of *H.* 'Breeder's Choice' and *H.* 'Halcyon'. Its defining visual characteristic is the intense blue-green leaf blade edged with a smooth, yellow-gold margin, a combination made more pronounced by a glaucous bloom on both leaf surfaces.

In the Garden

'Dress Blues' forms an open, upright mound reaching 24 inches (61.0 cm) in height and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter, with a fast growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, where the glaucous bloom remains intact. Its compact size suits it for the front of borders, rock gardens, or container plantings, and it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, or other small shade perennials.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Fertilize in early spring as new growth emerges. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor and manage as needed.