H. ‘Louise Ryan’

Overview

Registered in 1993 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Ryan's Big One', 'Louise Ryan' was developed by Walters Gardens, Inc. and registered by C. Falstad. This large cultivar is distinguished by its intensely blue-green leaves with wide, medium green, smooth margins and a glaucous bloom on both surfaces.

In the Garden

'Louise Ryan' reaches a mature size of 26 inches (66.0 cm) in height and 32 inches (81.3 cm) in diameter, with individual leaves measuring 12 inches (30.5 cm) long and 7.75 inches (19.7 cm) wide, bearing 15 to 17 pairs of veins. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and its substantial blue-green foliage with contrasting margins provides a strong textural presence in the border or woodland garden. This cultivar pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its large, rounded leaves.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage the foliage, so preventive measures are advisable in areas where these pests are prevalent.