H. ‘Mad About Blue’

Overview

Registered in 2009, 'Mad About Blue' is a medium-sized hosta cultivar derived from a cross between Hosta 'Frances Williams' (pod parent) and (Hosta 'Marilyn' × Hosta 'Tardiflora') (pollen parent). The cultivar is distinguished by its intensely blue-green, broadly ovate leaves with flat margins, a glaucous bloom on both surfaces, and moderate waviness with light corrugation.

In the Garden

'Mad About Blue' forms a slow-growing, mound-like clump reaching 16 inches (40.6 cm) in height and 39 inches (99.1 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most blue-leaved hostas, where the glaucous bloom responsible for its blue coloration is best preserved. Its medium size and rounded habit make it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded woodland gardens, pairing well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new shoots emerge. As with most hostas, monitor for slug and deer damage, particularly on the tender new foliage in spring, and maintain good air circulation to reduce foliar disease risk.