H. ‘October Sky’
Hosta ‘October Sky’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2008 |
|---|---|
| Section class | III-2 (Medium) |
Overview
Registered in 2008, *Hosta* 'October Sky' is a medium-sized cultivar resulting from a cross between *Hosta* 'Frosted Dimples' and *Hosta* 'Salute'. This cultivar is visually distinctive for its intense powder-blue glaucous bloom that covers both leaf surfaces, combined with slightly rippled margins and a moderate leaf fold.
In the Garden
'Hosta' October Sky' forms a semi-upright clump reaching 14 inches (35.6 cm) in height and 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green foliage retains its glaucous bloom. The 8-inch (20.3 cm) long, 4-inch (10.2 cm) wide ovate leaves carry 9 to 10 vein pairs and show a slight pucker. This cultivar pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials that contrast with its blue tones. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts and woodland gardens.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are recommended for typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 30 in (76.2 cm) |
| Leaf length | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Leaf width | 4 in (10.2 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 10 |
| Leaf | intensely blue-green slightly rippled margins; glaucous bloom on top; glaucous bloom underneath; ovate moderately folded |
| Flower scape height | 18–20 in (45.7–50.8 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | intense powder blue, top and bottom of leaf, slight pucker, creamy green with pink blush bracts |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Frosted Dimples' — H. ‘Frosted Dimples’
- Pollen parent: H. 'Salute' — H. ‘Salute’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (III-2, medium size):
- H. ‘Purple Rain’ (2008)
- H. ‘Blue Cascade’ (2009)
- H. ‘Canadian Blue’ (2009)
- H. ‘Lederhosen’ (2010)
- H. ‘Delaware River’ (2005)
- H. ‘Blue Haired Lady’ (2004)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4081