H. ‘Humpback Whale’
Hosta ‘Humpback Whale’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by C. Seaver.
| Year registered | 2012 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | C. Seaver |
| Section class | I-1 (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 2012 by C. Seaver, 'Humpback Whale' is a giant variegated hosta of unknown parentage. It is visually distinctive for its massive, broadly ovate leaves with dark green flat margins and a moderately convex, cupped form, reaching 17 inches in length and 15 inches in width.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a large, mound-like clump up to 84 inches (213.4 cm) in diameter and 35 inches (88.9 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It is best sited in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and pairs well with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, astilbes, and heucheras. Its substantial size makes it unsuitable for containers and best used as a specimen or background plant in larger garden spaces.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. The thick leaves provide moderate resistance to slugs, though monitoring is still advisable in damp conditions.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 35 in (88.9 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 84 in (213.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 17 in (43.2 cm) |
| Leaf width | 15 in (38.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 15 |
| Leaf | dark green flat margins; dull on top; dull underneath; moderately convex cupped |
| Notable characteristics | very fertile pollen and flowers |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-1, giant size):
- H. ‘Charles’ (2014)
- H. ‘Armani’ (2015)
- H. ‘Empress Wu’ (2008)
- H. ‘Komodo Dragon’ (2004)
- H. ‘Elata’ (2002)
- H. ‘Green Dragonet’ (1999)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2669