H. ‘Missouri River’

Overview

Registered in 2005 by D. Beilstein, this medium-sized cultivar was hybridized from *Hosta* 'Raspberry Sorbet' and *Hosta* 'Riptide'. It is visually distinctive for its ovate, blue-green leaves with deeply wavy margins, dull surfaces on both sides, and purple petioles that contrast with the foliage.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Missouri River' forms a mound-like clump reaching 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter and 13 inches (33.0 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, where the leaf color remains truest. The deeply wavy leaf margins provide textural contrast when paired with finer-textured perennials such as ferns or *Heuchera*.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Slugs and deer may damage foliage; monitor and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.