H. ‘Elbridge Gerry’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by D. Beilstein and M. Zilis, 'Elbridge Gerry' is a medium-sized hosta derived from the pod parent *Hosta* 'Galaxy' and the pollen parent (*H.* 'Fantastic' × *H.* 'Elatior'). It is visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with broad, flat, golden yellow margins that extend 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) wide, creating a strong bicolor contrast.

In the Garden

'Elbridge Gerry' forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 39 inches (99.1 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, where the leaf color remains truest. The large, ovate leaves—9 inches (22.9 cm) long and 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide—are moderately wavy and lightly corrugated, with a dull upper surface and a glaucous bloom beneath. This cultivar works well as a specimen or in mixed shade borders, paired with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for the middle of a border or as a groundcover in shaded areas.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many hostas, 'Elbridge Gerry' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.