H. ‘Red Bull’

Overview

Registered in 2010, this large hosta cultivar results from a cross between *Hosta* 'Maya Kingsnake' (pod parent) and *Hosta* 'Purple Boots' (pollen parent). Visually distinctive for its blue-green leaves with medium green margins, dark red petioles, and a dark red scape that rises well above the foliage.

In the Garden

'Hosta 'Red Bull' forms a mound-shaped clump reaching approximately 40 inches (103 cm) in diameter and 19 inches (47.5 cm) in height, with a fast growth rate. The broadly ovate leaves, 9.5 inches (24.1 cm) long and 7.4 inches (18.8 cm) wide, have a cordate base and lightly wavy margins; the upper surface is slightly shiny, while the underside carries a glaucous bloom. The dark red scapes, 22 to 29 inches (56 to 74 cm) tall, provide a strong vertical accent. This cultivar performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-green hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its large size makes it unsuitable for containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season; apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it may be browsed by deer and is susceptible to slug damage on the broad leaves.