H. ‘Leading Lady’
Hosta ‘Leading Lady’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by J. & J. Wilkins.
| Year registered | 1995 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | J. & J. Wilkins |
| Section class | I-5b (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 1995 by J. & J. Wilkins, *Hosta* 'Leading Lady' is a giant sport of a seedling derived from *Hosta* 'William Lachman'. It is visually distinctive for its large, dark green leaves with gold, slightly rippled margins, and its substantial mature dimensions.
In the Garden
This cultivar reaches a mature size of 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter and 23 inches (58.4 cm) in height, with a semi-upright growth habit. It is best suited to partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and performs well in rich, well-drained soil. Its large size makes it an effective specimen or background plant in shaded borders; it is not suitable for container culture due to its giant stature. Companion plants include ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain even moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as both pests may damage the foliage.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 23 in (58.4 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 40 in (101.6 cm) |
| Leaf length | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 13 |
| Leaf | dark green with .75in (1.9cm) wide, gold, slightly rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath |
| Flower scape height | 39 in (99.1 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'William Lachman' seedling — H. ‘William Lachman’
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Leading Lady’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Unexpected Song’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-5b, giant size):
- H. ‘David A. Haskell’ (1999)
- H. ‘Celestial’ (2000)
- H. ‘Liberty’ (2000)
- H. ‘Victory’ (2003)
- H. ‘Frances Williams’ (1986)
- H. ‘Samurai’ (2010)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3326