H. ‘Piedmont Special’

Overview

Registered in 2003 as a sport of *Hosta* 'Piedmont Gold', 'Piedmont Special' is a large hosta distinguished by its blue-green leaf centers sharply contrasted with bright gold, flat margins. The glaucous bloom on both leaf surfaces enhances the color separation, and the broadly ovate, moderately corrugated leaves reach 10 inches (25.4 cm) long by 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) wide with 14 to 15 vein pairs.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump 25 inches (63.5 cm) tall and 63 inches (160 cm) in diameter, making it suitable as a specimen or in the middle to back of a shaded border. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the blue-green centers remain true, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its substantial leaf size and strong contrast provide visual anchor in woodland gardens.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug damage and deer browsing; protective measures may be necessary in areas where these pests are prevalent.