H. ‘Hometown Hero’

Overview

Registered in 2014, 'Hometown Hero' is a large hosta cultivar derived from a cross between *H.* 'Smoke Signals' (pod parent) and *H.* 'Azure Snow' (pollen parent). It is distinguished by its intensely blue-green foliage, which exhibits a pronounced glaucous bloom on both leaf surfaces, giving the plant an exceptionally blue appearance among large hostas.

In the Garden

'Home Town Hero' forms a mound-like clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 41 inches (104.1 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of blue-leaved hostas, where its glaucous bloom is best preserved. The substantial ovate leaves, 12 inches (30.5 cm) long and 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) wide with 10 to 12 vein pairs, feature flat margins, light folding, and light waviness. Companion plants that thrive in similar conditions include ferns, heucheras, and shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, particularly during establishment, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The heavy glaucous coating may be susceptible to slug damage; standard slug management practices are recommended in typical hosta-growing zones.