H. ‘King Cobra’
Hosta ‘King Cobra’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by A. Scheer & M. Gilligan.
| Year registered | 2015 |
|---|---|
| Originator | A. Scheer & M. Gilligan |
| Section class | III-3 (Medium) |
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.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 16 in (40.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 30 in (76.2 cm) |
| Leaf length | 7 in (17.8 cm) |
| Leaf width | 5 in (12.7 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 9 |
| Leaf | greenish yellow slightly rippled margins; dull on top; slightly shiny underneath; lightly wavy |
| Flower scape height | 14–20 in (35.6–50.8 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | greens up, leaves lose red as season progresses |
| Notable characteristics | graceful, red in stems and some into leaves |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Maya Kingsnake'
- Pollen parent: OP
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-3, medium size):
- H. ‘Cup of Joy’ (2011)
- H. ‘Glen Fetish’ (2008)
- H. ‘World Cup’ (2006)
- H. ‘Lydia Scheu’ (1999)
- H. ‘Aladdin's Lamp’ (1996)
- H. ‘August Moon’ (1996)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3023