H. ‘Phantom’
Hosta ‘Phantom’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by R. Solberg & J. & J. Wilkins.
| Year registered | 1995 |
|---|---|
| Originator | R. Solberg & J. & J. Wilkins |
| Registrant | J. & J. Wilkins |
| Section class | II-1 (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 1995 by R. Solberg and J. & J. Wilkins, *Hosta* 'Phantom' is a large, mound-forming cultivar derived from a hybrid of *H. 'Riptide'*. It is visually distinguished by its heavily rippled, dark green leaf margins, blue-green leaf centers, and a prominent glaucous bloom on both leaf surfaces.
In the Garden
'Phantom' performs best in partial to full shade, typical of most hostas, and reaches a mature size of 18 inches (45.7 cm) in height and 33 inches (83.8 cm) in diameter. Its substantial foliage and moderate growth rate make it suitable for mid-border or specimen placement in woodland gardens, where it pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The tall, glaucous purple scapes (30 to 35 inches / 76.2 to 88.9 cm) bear lavender flowers in midsummer.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many large-leaved hostas, 'Phantom' is susceptible to slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 18 in (45.7 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 33 in (83.8 cm) |
| Leaf length | 10 in (25.4 cm) |
| Leaf width | 7.5 in (19.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 10 |
| Leaf | dark green heavy ripples margins; glaucous bloom on top; glaucous bloom underneath |
| Flower scape height | 30–35 in (76.2–88.9 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: Hybrid of H. 'Riptide' — H. ‘Riptide’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-1, large size):
- H. ‘Willy Nilly’ (1996)
- H. ‘Tracy's Emerald Cup’ (1997)
- H. ‘Duke’ (1988)
- H. ‘Foxfire Irish Moon’ (2003)
- H. ‘Nakaimo’ (1986)
- H. ‘Pioneer’ (1984)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4325