H. ‘Gray Cole’

Overview

Registered in 1985 by Kuk's Forest Nursery, 'Gray Cole' is a giant blue-green hosta selected from a form of *Hosta sieboldiana*. Its most distinctive feature is the combination of large, heavily textured leaves with pronounced blue-gray margins and a broad, cupped blade that holds its color well into the season.

In the Garden

With a mature spread of 24 inches (61 cm) and height of 33 inches (84 cm), 'Gray Cole' functions as a substantial specimen in partial to full shade. Its massive 15-inch (38 cm) leaves create a bold textural contrast when paired with finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*. The plant's dense habit makes it effective as a ground cover in shaded borders, though it is too large for container cultivation.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. Like most blue-leaved hostas, 'Gray Cole' is less palatable to slugs than yellow or gold cultivars, but deer may browse it in typical hosta-growing zones.