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.
This summary was generated with AI from the registry record and has not been reviewed yet; the registry data on this page is the reference. How we use AI.
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. ‘Liberty’ (2000)
- H. ‘Frances Williams’ (1986)
- H. ‘Prima Donna’ (1995)
- H. ‘Corona’ (1996)
- H. ‘Lady Isobel Barnett’ (1996)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3326. How we check this data.