H. ‘El Capitan’

AI-generated watercolor illustration of Hosta 'El Capitan' (not a photograph)
AI-generated watercolor illustration by The Hosta Farm — not a photograph of this cultivar. How we use images

Hosta ‘El Capitan’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by W. & E. Lachman.

Year registered1987
RegistrantW. & E. Lachman
Section classII-5b (Large)

Overview

Registered in 1987 by W. & E. Lachman, Hosta 'El Capitan' is a large cultivar derived from a hybrid of H. 'Beatrice'. It is visually distinguished by its dark green leaves with broad margins that transition from cream to yellow-chartreuse as the season progresses.

In the Garden

'El Capitan' forms a substantial clump reaching 42 inches (107 cm) in diameter and 24 inches (61 cm) in height, with scapes extending up to 35 inches (89 cm). It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its large, rounded leaves with 12 vein pairs create a bold textural presence. Suitable companions include ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its size makes it appropriate for mid-border or as a specimen plant.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'El Capitan' is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.

This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.

Size and leaf

Clump height24 in (61 cm)
Clump width42 in (106.7 cm)
Leaf length10.5 in (26.7 cm)
Leaf width9 in (22.9 cm)
Vein pairs12
Flower scape height35 in (88.9 cm)

From the American Hosta Society Registry record.

Parentage

  • Pod parent: Hybrid of H. 'Beatrice'

Similar cultivars

Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-5b, large size):

Related guides

Registration data: AHS Registry #1571. How we check this data.