H. ‘Hudson Bay’

Overview

Registered in 2012 as a sport of an unidentified parent, *Hosta* 'Hudson Bay' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its unusually broad blue-green leaf margins surrounding creamy white centers. The leaves measure 9 inches (22.9 cm) long by 6 inches (15.2 cm) wide, with flat, medium blue-green margins extending 2 to 3 inches (5.1 to 7.6 cm) wide, and exhibit a glaucous bloom on both surfaces.

In the Garden

'Hudson Bay' forms a mound-like clump reaching 22 inches (55.9 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its broad blue-green margins provide good contrast in mixed shade borders or as a groundcover under deciduous trees. The creamy white scapes, 20 to 26 inches (50.8 to 66.0 cm) tall, bear flowers that complement the foliage without dominating.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, particularly in spring and early summer when leaves are expanding. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The cultivar shows resistance to melting out in the center, a common issue in white-centered hostas, but standard slug and deer deterrents remain advisable in gardens where these pests are prevalent.