H. ‘Rhapsody in Blue’

Overview

Registered in 1995 by R. Benedict and introduced by J. & J. Wilkins, *Hosta* 'Rhapsody in Blue' is a medium-sized cultivar derived from a hybrid of *H. rupifraga*. It is distinguished by its intensely blue-green, cordate leaves that bear a heavy glaucous bloom on both surfaces and exhibit slightly rippled margins.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 30 inches (76.2 cm) in diameter and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where its blue coloration is most pronounced. The broad leaves pair well with fine-textured ferns or shade-tolerant groundcovers such as *Lamium* or *Pulmonaria*.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly in dry spells, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. As with most hostas, slug and deer damage may occur; monitor foliage regularly and apply controls as needed.