H. ‘Rachel’
Hosta ‘Rachel’ is a registered cultivar () , originated by B. Kuk.
| Year registered | 2005 |
|---|---|
| Registrant | B. Kuk |
| Section class | II-5b (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2005 by B. Kuk, *Hosta* 'Rachel' is a large cultivar derived from a cross between *Hosta* 'Heartache' (pod parent) and *Hosta ventricosa* (pollen parent). It is visually distinctive for its nearly round, blue-green leaves with wide, variable golden yellow margins and dark purple flowers that contrast strongly with the foliage.
In the Garden
'Hosta' forms a mound-like clump reaching 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height and 34 inches (86.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and its substantial leaf size makes it suitable as a specimen or in mixed shade borders. The dark purple scapes, reaching 26 to 29 inches (66.0 to 73.7 cm), and large, plump seed pods add late-season interest.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are recommended, as with most large-leaved hostas.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 20 in (50.8 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 34 in (86.4 cm) |
| Leaf length | 9 in (22.9 cm) |
| Leaf width | 8 in (20.3 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 10 |
| Leaf | dark green with .5 to 1in (1.3 to 2.5cm) wide, variable golden yellow, slightly rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; glaucous bloom underneath; lightly cupped, moderately corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 26–29 in (66.0–73.7 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | outstanding color contrast with dark purple flowers, large, plump seed pods |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: H. 'Heartache' — H. ‘Heartache’
- Pollen parent: H. ventricosa
Registered cultivars that list Hosta ‘Rachel’ as a parent:
- H. ‘Leona’ (sport)
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-5b, large size):
- H. ‘Afternoon Delight’ (2003)
- H. ‘August Beauty’ (2009)
- H. ‘Arc de Triomphe’ (2000)
- H. ‘Band of Gold’ (1999)
- H. ‘Blue River’ (1998)
- H. ‘Andy Murray’ (2013)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4548