H. ‘Outrigger’

Overview

Registered in 2000, this large hosta cultivar resulted from a cross between *H. 'Sea Prize'* and *H. 'Maekawa'*. Its most distinctive feature is the combination of blue-green leaves with bright gold margins that occasionally show medium green streaking, a pattern that sets it apart from many bicolored hostas.

In the Garden

Reaching 27 inches (68.6 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter, 'Outrigger' forms an upright, fast-growing clump suitable for partial to full shade. The large, cordate leaves measure 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) long by 7.75 inches (19.7 cm) wide, with 10 vein pairs and slightly rippled, 0.75-inch (1.9 cm) wide yellow margins. The leaf surface is very shiny on top with a glaucous bloom underneath. This cultivar pairs well with ferns and other shade perennials in borders or woodland gardens; its substantial size makes it unsuitable for containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most large-leaved hostas, it may be susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing in typical hosta-growing zones.