H. ‘Open Hearted’
Hosta ‘Open Hearted’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 1999 |
|---|---|
| Section class | I-2 (Giant) |
Overview
Registered in 1999, *Hosta* 'Open Hearted' is a giant cultivar of unknown parentage distinguished by its intensely blue-green foliage with a glaucous bloom on both leaf surfaces and slightly rippled margins. The leaves are cordate at the base, reaching 14 inches (35.6 cm) in length and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in width, with 14 pairs of veins.
In the Garden
This cultivar forms a substantial mound 44 inches (111.8 cm) tall and 72 inches (182.9 cm) in diameter, making it suitable for use as a specimen plant or as part of a mixed shade border. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green coloration is most pronounced. The large leaves pair well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that contrast in texture or color.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in warmer weather, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most large-leaved hostas, 'Open Hearted' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and take protective measures where these pests are prevalent.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 44 in (111.8 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 72 in (182.9 cm) |
| Leaf length | 14 in (35.6 cm) |
| Leaf width | 12 in (30.5 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 14 |
| Leaf | intensely blue green slightly rippled margins; glaucous bloom on top; glaucous bloom underneath |
| Flower scape height | 42–46 in (106.7–116.8 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (I-2, giant size):
- H. ‘Abiqua Elephant Ears’ (1999)
- H. ‘Big and Blue’ (2000)
- H. ‘Hirao Zeus’ (1997)
- H. ‘Cool Change’ (1995)
- H. ‘Eola Sapphire’ (2004)
- H. ‘Gentle Giant’ (2005)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4153