H. ‘Espresso’

Overview

Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Espresso' is a medium-sized hybrid between *Hosta* 'Aqua Velva' and *Hosta rupifraga*. This cultivar is visually distinctive for its blue-green foliage that carries a dull, glaucous bloom on the leaf undersides, combined with dark green, flat leaf margins and an ovate, rounded leaf base.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Espresso' forms a moderate-growing, mound-like clump reaching 17 inches (43.2 cm) in height and 35 inches (88.9 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in woodland gardens. Companion plants that contrast with its blue-green leaves, such as golden-leaved *Hakonechloa* or white-flowered *Astilbe*, work well in combination.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Espresso' may be damaged by slugs and deer in garden settings.