H. ‘Kong’
Hosta ‘Kong’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by C. Soules.
| Year registered | 1990 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | C. Soules |
| Section class | I-2 (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 1990 by C. Soules, 'Kong' is a giant blue-green hosta resulting from a hybrid of *Hosta sieboldiana*. It is visually distinctive for its exceptionally large, heavily textured leaves that reach 15 inches (38.1 cm) in length and 10 inches (25.4 cm) in width, with prominent blue-green margins and 15 pairs of veins.
In the Garden
'Kong' reaches a mature spread of 70 inches (177.8 cm) in diameter and a height of 29 inches (73.7 cm), making it suitable as a specimen plant or for the back of a shaded border. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage retains its color. Its substantial size pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that contrast in texture or height.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, particularly during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While slugs may damage young leaves, the thick texture of mature foliage offers some resistance; deer may browse the plant in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 29 in (73.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 70 in (177.8 cm) |
| Leaf length | 15 in (38.1 cm) |
| Leaf width | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 15 |
| Flower scape height | 30–32 in (76.2–81.3 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: Hybrid of H. sieboldiana
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-2, giant size):
- H. ‘Blue Angel’ (1986)
- H. ‘Cool Change’ (1995)
- H. ‘Bressingham Blue’ (1984)
- H. ‘Hirao Zeus’ (1997)
- H. ‘Helen Doriot’ (1982)
- H. ‘Abiqua Elephant Ears’ (1999)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3099