H. ‘Formal Attire’
Hosta ‘Formal Attire’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by K. Vaughn.
| Year registered | 1988 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | K. Vaughn |
| Section class | II-4b (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 1988 by K. Vaughn, this large hosta cultivar is a cross between *H. 'Breeder's Choice'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Frances Williams'* (pollen parent). It is visually distinguished by its dark blue-green leaves with creamy yellow margins, a combination inherited from its notable parentage.
In the Garden
'Formal Attire' reaches a mature spread of 35 inches (88.9 cm) and a height of 30 inches (76.2 cm), making it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in partial to full shade. Its substantial leaves, 11 inches (27.9 cm) long and 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide with 12 vein pairs, pair well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The scape rises to 38 inches (96.5 cm), bearing flowers typical of the genus.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 30 in (76.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 35 in (88.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 11 in (27.9 cm) |
| Leaf width | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 12 |
| Flower scape height | 38 in (96.5 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Breeder's Choice'
- Pollen parent: H. 'Frances Williams' — H. ‘Frances Williams’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-4b, large size):
- H. ‘Blazing Saddles’ (2000)
- H. ‘Earth Angel’ (2002)
- H. ‘Amazing Matthew’ (2003)
- H. ‘Splendid Sarah’ (2005)
- H. ‘Lakeside Prophecy Fulfilled’ (2006)
- H. ‘Border Street’ (2008)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #1853