H. ‘Kiwi Pacific Blue’

Overview

Registered in 1999, *Hosta* 'Kiwi Pacific Blue' is a large, mound-forming cultivar derived from *Hosta sieboldiana* as both seed and pollen parent. It is visually distinctive for its intensely blue-green leaves with slightly rippled margins and a heavy glaucous bloom on both surfaces, giving the foliage a matte, powder-blue appearance.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a substantial, symmetrical mound reaching 24 inches (61.0 cm) in height and 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue coloration is most pronounced; excessive sun may diminish the glaucous bloom. The large, cordate leaves, each 10 inches (25.4 cm) long and wide with 14 vein pairs, provide strong textural contrast when paired with finer-leaved shade perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*. Its size makes it unsuitable for small containers but effective as a specimen or in mass plantings in woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during establishment, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many blue-leaved hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.