H. ‘Lucy and Ethel’

Overview

Registered in 2009 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Linda Sue', 'Lucy and Ethel' is a giant blue-green cultivar distinguished by its very thick, broadly ovate leaves with cordate bases, lightly wavy margins, and moderate corrugation. The leaves display a glaucous bloom on both surfaces and measure 13 inches (33.0 cm) long by 10 inches (25.4 cm) wide, with 16 to 18 vein pairs.

In the Garden

This slow-growing, mound-forming hosta reaches a mature spread of 50 inches (127.0 cm) and a height of 20 inches (50.8 cm), making it suitable as a specimen or background plant in shaded borders. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of blue-leaved cultivars, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its substantial leaf substance allows it to tolerate slightly more sun than thinner-leaved hostas, though morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods; apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick leaves provide moderate resistance to slugs and deer, though monitoring may still be necessary in high-pressure areas.