H. ‘Great American Expectations’
Hosta ‘Great American Expectations’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by V. Wade.
| Year registered | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Originator | V. Wade |
| Section class | II-6a (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 1999 by V. Wade as a sport of *Hosta* 'Great Expectations', this large cultivar is distinguished by its blue-green leaves with gold margins and a subtle medium green stripe between the center and the margin. The leaves are nearly round, deeply corrugated, and lightly cupped, with a dull upper surface and a glaucous bloom beneath.
In the Garden
'Great American Expectations' reaches a mature diameter of 47 inches (119.4 cm) and a height of 26 inches (66.0 cm), with an upright, moderate growth habit. It performs best in partial to full shade and is well-suited to woodland borders or as a specimen plant in typical hosta-growing zones. Its substantial foliage pairs effectively with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick, corrugated leaves offer moderate resistance to slugs, though standard preventative measures are recommended in high-pressure areas.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 26 in (66 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 47 in (119.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 10.5 in (26.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 9.5 in (24.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 17 |
| Leaf | greenish yellow to yellow with 3in (7.6cm) wide, dark green, slightly rippled margins; dull on top; glaucous bloom underneath |
| Flower scape height | 22–28 in (55.9–71.1 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | leaves have medium green stripes between center and the margin, lightly cupped, deeply corrugated, nearly round; scape has inflorescence leaves; plant has larger leaves, taller scapes and is faster growing than 'Great Expectations'. |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-6a, large size):
- H. ‘Stained Glass’ (1999)
- H. ‘Brother Stefan’ (1998)
- H. ‘Lakeside Shore Master’ (1998)
- H. ‘Dream Weaver’ (1996)
- H. ‘Night Shift’ (1991)
- H. ‘Cool as a Cucumber’ (2012)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2284