H. ‘Island Forest Gem’
Hosta ‘Island Forest Gem’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by AHS, K. Walek.
| Year registered | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | AHS, K. Walek |
| Section class | II-1 (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, 'Island Forest Gem' is a large blue-green hosta with dark green margins, deeply corrugated, cupped leaves that are broadly ovate with cordate bases. Its foliage displays a thin glaucous bloom on the undersides and a dull upper surface, with 14 vein pairs per leaf.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a substantial, mound-like clump reaching 48 inches (121.9 cm) in diameter and 21 inches (53.3 cm) in height, making it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in partial to full shade. Its large, textured leaves pair well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that contrast with its blue-green tones. The 27-inch (68.6 cm) scapes bear typical hosta flowers in summer.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are recommended, as with most large-leaved hostas. This cultivar performs reliably in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 21 in (53.3 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 48 in (121.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 10.5 in (26.7 cm) |
| Leaf width | 8.5 in (21.6 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 14 |
| Leaf | dull on top; thin glaucous bloom underneath; cupped; deeply corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 27 in (68.6 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: seedling of unknown parentage
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-1, large size):
- H. ‘Aphrodite’ (2009)
- H. ‘Ben’ (2015)
- H. ‘Foxfire Irish Moon’ (2003)
- H. ‘Tracy's Emerald Cup’ (1997)
- H. ‘Willy Nilly’ (1996)
- H. ‘Duke’ (1988)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #2771