H. ‘Maniac’

Overview

Registered in 2010 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Embroidery', 'Maniac' is a large, mound-forming cultivar distinguished by its blue-green leaves with broad, light green, slightly rippled margins. The foliage exhibits a glaucous bloom on the underside and a lightly corrugated texture, with ovate leaves measuring 10 inches (25.4 cm) long and 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide.

In the Garden

'Maniac' reaches a mature spread of 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter and a height of 15 inches (38.1 cm), with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green coloration and marginal variegation are most pronounced. This cultivar pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials; its large size makes it unsuitable for containers.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. 'Maniac' is susceptible to slug damage and may require protection in areas with high slug or deer pressure.