H. ‘King Cobra’

Overview

Registered in 2015 by A. Scheer and M. Gilligan, 'King Cobra' is a medium-sized hosta notable for its green leaves with gold margins and red coloration extending from the petioles into the leaf bases. The cultivar was derived from an open-pollinated seed of *H.* 'Maya Kingsnake' and exhibits an upright, fast-growing habit.

In the Garden

'King Cobra' reaches 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter at maturity, with broadly ovate leaves measuring 7 inches (17.8 cm) long by 5 inches (12.7 cm) wide. The leaves are dull on the upper surface and slightly shiny beneath, with lightly wavy margins and 7 to 9 vein pairs. This cultivar performs best in partial to dappled shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and its upright form suits the middle of the border or as a specimen in woodland gardens. It pairs well with ferns and shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer exposures. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed preventatively.