H. ‘Neptune’

Overview

Registered in 2006, *Hosta* 'Neptune' is a large, mound-forming cultivar of unknown parentage, notable for its broad, heavily textured blue-green leaves with rippled margins and a pronounced glaucous bloom on both surfaces. The foliage is ovate with a flat base, measuring 13 inches (33.0 cm) long and 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, with nine pairs of veins and lightly wavy edges.

In the Garden

'Neptune' forms a substantial mound 24 inches (61.0 cm) tall and 47 inches (119.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-leaved hostas, where the glaucous bloom is best preserved. The arching scapes, reaching 32 to 39 inches (81.3 to 99.1 cm) in height, bear pale lavender flowers in midsummer. This cultivar is well suited as a specimen or in mixed shade borders, paired with ferns, heucheras, or other shade-tolerant perennials.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The thick, textured leaves offer moderate resistance to slugs, though monitoring is advised in damp conditions. Deer may browse the foliage, and protection is recommended where deer pressure is high.