H. ‘Lakeside Ring Master’

Overview

Registered in 1998 by Mary Chastain, *Hosta* 'Lakeside Ring Master' is a giant cultivar derived from a cross between a streaked form of *H. 'Lakeside Roy El'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Lakeside Ripples'* (pollen parent). It is distinguished by its large, medium green leaves with broad, creamy white, slightly rippled margins and its substantial upright scapes.

In the Garden

This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, where its giant dimensions—reaching 36 inches (91.4 cm) in height and 27 inches (68.6 cm) in spread—make it a prominent specimen for the back of a border or as a focal point in a woodland garden. Its moderate growth rate and large, cordate leaves with a slightly shiny upper surface and dull underside provide textural contrast when paired with ferns, astilbes, or fine-leaved grasses. The 40 to 44 inch (101.6 to 111.8 cm) scapes bear lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. As with many large-leaved hostas, slug and deer damage may occur and should be managed through appropriate barriers or repellents.