H. ‘Lenape’

Overview

Registered in 2007, *Hosta* 'Lenape' is a giant, mound-forming cultivar derived from a selfed seed of *H. 'Elatior'*. It is visually distinctive for its large, ovate leaves with cordate bases, green flat margins, and a slightly shiny, lustrous upper surface; the leaf blade is moderately flat and bears 12 to 14 pairs of veins.

In the Garden

'Lenape' reaches a mature spread of 54 inches (137.2 cm) and a height of 29 inches (73.7 cm), forming a substantial mound with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as typical for hostas, and its large, smooth green leaves provide a bold textural contrast when planted alongside finer-leaved perennials such as ferns or heucheras. Its size makes it unsuitable for containers; it is best used as a specimen or in the middle to back of a shaded border.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods; apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The smooth leaf surface may be less attractive to slugs than heavily textured cultivars, but standard slug and deer deterrents are advisable in areas with high pressure.