H. ‘Malabar’

Overview

Registered in 2009, *Hosta* 'Malabar' is a medium-sized cultivar of unknown parentage, with *H.* 'Breeder's Choice' as the pod parent. Its most distinctive feature is the combination of blue-green leaves with broad, flat, golden yellow margins, a coloration that provides strong contrast throughout the growing season.

In the Garden

'Malabar' forms a slow-growing, mound-like clump reaching 37 inches (94 cm) in diameter and 13 inches (33 cm) in height at maturity. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the gold margins remain most vivid; excessive sun may cause marginal scorching. The ovate, lightly wavy leaves with a dull upper surface and glaucous bloom beneath pair well with ferns, *Heuchera*, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or as a specimen in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during dry periods, especially in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick leaves show moderate resistance to slugs, though monitoring is advisable in damp conditions.