H. ‘Rain Dancer’
Hosta ‘Rain Dancer’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2007 |
|---|---|
| Section class | II-5b (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2007, this large sport of *Hosta* 'Blue Umbrellas' is distinguished by its blue-green leaves with irregular, greenish-yellow margins that vary in width from 0.25 to 2 inches. The broadly ovate, lightly corrugated foliage measures up to 12 inches long and 9.5 inches wide, with a cordate base and a glaucous bloom on the undersides, while the scape rises to 25 inches with glaucous green coloration.
In the Garden
'Hosta 'Rain Dancer' forms a mound-like clump reaching 24 inches in height and 43 inches in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue-green leaves and gold margins hold their color most reliably. This large specimen works well as a focal point in shaded borders or woodland gardens, and pairs effectively with ferns, astilbes, or other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its broad foliage.
Care Notes
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as the broad leaves are susceptible to damage from both pests.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 24 in (61 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 43 in (109.2 cm) |
| Leaf length | 12 in (30.5 cm) |
| Leaf width | 9.5 in (24.1 cm) |
| Vein pairs | 14 |
| Leaf | dark green with .25 to 2in (0.6 to 5.1cm) wide, greenish yellow, flat margins; glaucous bloom underneath; lightly corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 25 in (63.5 cm) |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Sport parent: Sport of H. 'Blue Umbrellas' — H. ‘Blue Umbrellas’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-5b, large size):
- H. ‘August Beauty’ (2009)
- H. ‘Afternoon Delight’ (2003)
- H. ‘Andy Murray’ (2013)
- H. ‘Arc de Triomphe’ (2000)
- H. ‘Band of Gold’ (1999)
- H. ‘Blue River’ (1998)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #4555