H. ‘PeeDee Granny Smith’

Overview

Registered in 1992, this medium-sized hosta cultivar was developed from a cross between *H. 'Shade Fanfare'* (pod parent) and *H. 'Bold Ruffles'* (pollen parent). Its most distinctive feature is the blue-green leaf color with light blue margins, a combination that, together with a glaucous bloom on both leaf surfaces, gives the foliage a muted, powdery appearance reminiscent of its namesake apple.

In the Garden

Mature plants reach 21 inches (53.3 cm) in height and 38 inches (96.5 cm) in diameter, making this a substantial medium-sized hosta suitable for partially shaded borders or woodland gardens. The cordate leaves, measuring 9 inches (22.9 cm) long by 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide with 13 to 14 vein pairs, provide a bold textural presence when paired with ferns, astilbes, or other shade-tolerant perennials. Its size precludes use in most containers, though larger troughs or urns may accommodate a single specimen.

Care Notes

Standard hosta cultivation applies: consistent moisture during the growing season, with a balanced slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring as new shoots emerge. Like most hostas, this cultivar is susceptible to slug and deer damage, though the glaucous leaf coating may offer slight resistance to feeding.