H. ‘Leo’
Hosta ‘Leo’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2009 |
|---|---|
| Section class | I-3 (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Leo' is a giant cultivar resulting from an open-pollinated cross with *H. 'On Stage'* as the pod parent. It is visually distinctive for its large, broadly ovate leaves with golden yellow margins and a slightly shiny green center, combined with a flowing, mound-like habit.
In the Garden
'Leo' reaches a mature size of 25 inches (63.5 cm) in height and 45 inches (114.3 cm) in diameter, making it suitable as a specimen or focal point in shaded borders and woodland gardens. It performs best in partial to full shade with consistent moisture, and its substantial leaves pair well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The scapes rise 36 to 46 inches (91.4 to 116.8 cm) above the foliage, bearing flowers that are more blue than lavender with white surrounds.
Care Notes
Provide regular water during dry periods, especially in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer deterrents are advisable, as the large leaves are attractive to both pests.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 25 in (63.5 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 45 in (114.3 cm) |
| Leaf length | 15 in (38.1 cm) |
| Leaf width | 12 in (30.5 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 15 |
| Leaf | golden yellow flat margins; slightly shiny on top; very shiny underneath; moderately twisted, moderately wavy |
| Flower scape height | 36–46 in (91.4–116.8 cm) |
| Seasonal colour change | paler in mid-summer |
| Notable characteristics | impressive size, flowing habit, glowing color all season, flowers more blue than lavender, surrounded by white |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'On Stage' — H. ‘On Stage’
- Pollen parent: open pollinated
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-3, giant size):
- H. ‘Streets of Gold’ (2006)
- H. ‘River of Gold’ (2014)
- H. ‘Great Lakes Gold’ (2000)
- H. ‘Fragrant Gold’ (1982)
- H. ‘Golden Sculpture’ (1982)
- H. ‘Sum and Substance’ (1980)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #3360