H. ‘Old Black Magic’

Overview

Registered in 1999, this medium-sized hosta was hybridized from *Hosta* 'Sea Prize' as the pod parent and *Hosta hypoleuca* as the pollen parent. The cultivar is visually distinctive for its very dark blue-green leaves with slightly rippled margins, a glaucous bloom on the undersides, and a cordate leaf base that gives a broad, substantial appearance.

In the Garden

Mature plants reach approximately 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height and 33 inches (83.8 cm) in diameter, with an upright growth habit and moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for hostas, and pairs well with other shade-tolerant perennials such as ferns, heucheras, and astilbes. Its medium size makes it suitable for mid-border positions or as a specimen in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it may be susceptible to slug and deer damage, so protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.