H. ‘Red October’

Overview

Registered in 2009 by K. Walek of the American Hosta Society, 'Red October' is a medium-sized hosta cultivar derived from a cross between *Hosta longipes* f. *hypoglauca* and *Hosta* 'Harvest Delight'. It is visually distinctive for its blue-green foliage with a dull upper surface and glaucous bloom beneath, combined with medium green, slightly rippled leaf margins.

In the Garden

This cultivar reaches a mature spread of 36 inches (91.4 cm) and a height of 16 inches (40.6 cm), with an upright growth habit and slow growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for hostas, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its medium size makes it suitable for border fronts, woodland gardens, or as a specimen in shaded beds.

Care Notes

Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, it is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor and manage as needed in typical hosta-growing zones.