H. ‘Once upon a Time’
Hosta ‘Once upon a Time’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by J. Wilkins.
| Year registered | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Originator | J. Wilkins |
| Section class | II-7 (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2002 by J. Wilkins, this large hosta cultivar resulted from a selfed seedling of *H.* 'DB-87-1' crossed with *H.* 'Rhapsody in Blue'. It is visually distinctive for its medium blue-green leaves with unstable golden yellow streaking and heavily rippled margins, combined with a heavy leaf substance that contributes to its substantial texture.
In the Garden
Mature plants form a mound 14 inches (35.6 cm) tall and 28 inches (71.1 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. The broadly ovate leaves, 9 inches (22.9 cm) long and 7.5 inches (19.1 cm) wide, feature 11 vein pairs, a slightly shiny upper surface, and a glaucous bloom beneath. Suitable for partial to full shade in typical hosta-growing zones, it pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade perennials that complement its blue-green and gold coloration.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. The heavy leaf substance offers some resistance to slugs, though standard slug control measures are still advisable in damp conditions.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 28 in (71.1 cm) |
| Leaf length | 9 in (22.9 cm) |
| Leaf width | 7.5 in (19.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 11 |
| Leaf | medium blue green with unstable golden yellow streaks heavily rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; glaucous bloom underneath; moderately twisted. Lightly corrugated and flat |
| Flower scape height | 18–24 in (45.7–61.0 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | heavy substance; rippled edge; narrow margin |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: seedling of H. 'DB-87-1' selfed
- Pollen parent: H. 'Rhapsody in Blue' — H. ‘Rhapsody in Blue’
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Once upon a Time’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Happily Ever After’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-7, large size):
- H. ‘Justice’ (2003)
- H. ‘Cosmic Sister’ (2006)
- H. ‘Quesadilla’ (2010)
- H. ‘Alice Blue Gown’ (2002)
- H. ‘American Tisch Breeder’ (2002)
- H. ‘Blue Spanish Eyes’ (2002)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4145