H. ‘Great Lakes’
Hosta ‘Great Lakes’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by E. Fisher.
| Year registered | 1973 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | E. Fisher |
| Section class | I-2 (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 1973 by E. Fisher, this giant variegated hosta is a hybrid of *H. 'Frances Williams'. Its most distinctive feature is the broad gray leaf margins that frame the green blade center, with leaf undersides appearing whitish. The cordate leaf base and substantial leaf dimensions—14 inches long by 13 inches wide—contribute to its bold appearance.
In the Garden
'Great Lakes' reaches a mature spread of 40 inches (101.6 cm) and a height of 30 inches (76.2 cm), making it suitable as a specimen plant or as a focal point in a mixed border. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the gray marginal variegation remains most pronounced. Companion plants with contrasting foliage textures, such as ferns or *Heuchera*, complement its broad leaves. Its large size precludes container cultivation.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor regularly and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 30 in (76.2 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 40 in (101.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 13 in (33 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 16 |
| Leaf | whitish underneath |
| Flower scape height | 32 in (81.3 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: Hybrid of H. 'Frances Williams' — H. ‘Frances Williams’
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Great Lakes’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Royal Quilt’ (seedling (pod parent))
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-2, giant size):
- H. ‘Big Daddy’ (1978)
- H. ‘Big Mama’ (1978)
- H. ‘Blue Umbrellas’ (1978)
- H. ‘Krossa Regal’ (1980)
- H. ‘Helen Doriot’ (1982)
- H. ‘Bressingham Blue’ (1984)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2291