H. ‘Eola Sapphire’

Overview

*Hosta* 'Eola Sapphire' is a giant blue-green hosta registered in 2004 by L. Hottovy, grown from seed of unknown parentage obtained from Walden West. It is distinguished by its intensely blue-green, heavily corrugated leaves with a very shiny upper surface and glaucous bloom beneath, forming a substantial mound up to 96 inches (243.8 cm) in diameter and 48 inches (121.9 cm) in height. The cultivar exhibits a moderate growth rate and notably intense blue coloration in early spring.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Eola Sapphire' performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage retains maximum color intensity and the glaucous bloom on the leaf undersides is most pronounced. The broadly ovate leaves, each up to 18 inches (45.7 cm) long and 13 inches (33.0 cm) wide with 16 vein pairs and deeply corrugated texture, create a bold textural contrast when paired with finer-leaved shade perennials such as ferns, *Heuchera*, or *Tiarella*. The mound-like habit and substantial spread make it suitable as a specimen plant in larger borders or woodland gardens, though its size may limit use in smaller containers. Green scapes rise 48 to 60 inches (121.9 to 152.4 cm) above the foliage, bearing lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, to maintain leaf substance and prevent edge burn. *Hosta* 'Eola Sapphire' has very good leaf substance, which confers moderate resistance to slug damage, though monitoring remains advisable; deer may browse the foliage. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, adapting to a range of garden soils provided they are well-drained and rich in organic matter.