H. ‘Dubious Behavior’
Hosta ‘Dubious Behavior’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2012 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-6a (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 2012 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Hanky Panky', 'Dubious Behavior' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by green leaves with gold margins that undergo a "lightning effect" color change, producing pastel tones in the leaf interior. The broadly ovate leaves measure 7 inches (17.8 cm) long by 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide, with nine vein pairs and a dull surface on both sides; the margin is flat, 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) wide, and transitions from light green to dark green against a greenish-yellow center.
In the Garden
'Dubious Behavior' forms a mound-like clump 10 inches (25.4 cm) tall and 24 inches (61.0 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and is suitable for borders, woodland gardens, or shaded foundation plantings. Its medium size allows pairing with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials; it is not suited for containers due to its mature spread.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, applying water at the base to avoid leaf scorch. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula; slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed as needed.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 24 in (61 cm) |
| Leaf length | 7 in (17.8 cm) |
| Leaf width | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 9 |
| Leaf | greenish yellow with .5in (1.3cm) wide, light green to dark green, flat margins; dull on top; dull underneath; flat |
| Seasonal colour change | light green gets to dark green by season's end, center starts darks and lightens up |
| Notable characteristics | margin color changes, lightning effect after color changes, pastel colors in the leaves |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Hanky Panky' — H. ‘Hanky Panky’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-6a, medium size):
- H. ‘Broad Street’ (2012)
- H. ‘Proud Peacock’ (2016)
- H. ‘Vulcan’ (2007)
- H. ‘Andrew’ (2006)
- H. ‘Lakeside Paisley Print’ (2006)
- H. ‘American Sweetheart’ (2002)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #1528