H. ‘Old Bill’

Overview

Registered in 2012, *Hosta* 'Old Bill' is a giant blue-green cultivar of unknown parentage (open-pollinated). It is visually distinctive for its exceptionally large, mound-like habit reaching 66 inches (167.6 cm) in diameter and 44 inches (111.8 cm) in height, with broadly ovate, heavily corrugated leaves that bear a glaucous bloom on the undersides and slightly rippled margins.

In the Garden

'Old Bill' performs best in partial to full shade, where its substantial foliage and dense mound create a commanding presence in the landscape. Mature plants form a broad, symmetrical clump with leaves 17 inches (43.2 cm) long and 12 inches (30.5 cm) wide, supported by strong, stout petioles. This cultivar is well-suited as a specimen or accent plant in large borders, woodland gardens, or mixed shade beds, and pairs effectively with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its long, arching green scapes, reaching 52 to 56 inches (132.1 to 142.2 cm) in height, bear pale lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. 'Old Bill' is moderately resistant to slugs and deer, though protection may be warranted in high-pressure areas.