H. ‘Forever Green’

Overview

Registered in 1994, this medium-sized hybrid combines *Hosta rupifraga* as the seed parent with *Hosta plantaginea* as the pollen parent. The cultivar is distinguished by its heavily rippled, dark green leaf margins and very shiny upper surface, contrasting with a glaucous bloom on the underside; the blue-green leaves are broadly cordate at the base.

In the Garden

'Forever Green' forms a semi-upright clump reaching 13 inches (33.0 cm) in height and 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for mid-border positions in partial to full shade. The dark green scapes rise to 38 inches (96.5 cm) and bear flowers typical of its *H. plantaginea* parentage. Companion plants include ferns, *Heuchera*, and other shade-tolerant perennials; the plant's substantial size suits it as a specimen or in mass plantings.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during establishment and throughout dry periods; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick, rippled leaves offer moderate slug resistance, but standard slug control measures are advisable in damp conditions. This cultivar performs reliably in typical hosta-growing zones with adequate winter dormancy.