H. ‘Shawmut’

Overview

Registered in 1999 by T. Schmid as a sport of *Hosta* 'Allen C. Haskell', 'Shawmut' is a medium-sized cultivar distinguished by its dark blue-green leaves with wide, pure white margins. The leaf blades measure 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) long and 7 inches (17.8 cm) wide, with flat bases and slightly shiny surfaces on both sides.

In the Garden

'Shawmut' forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 15 inches (38.1 cm) in height and 23 inches (58.4 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, where the blue-green leaf centers retain their color and the white margins remain crisp. This cultivar pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its broad, variegated foliage.

Care Notes

Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like most hostas, 'Shawmut' is susceptible to slug and deer damage in typical hosta-growing zones; monitor for leaf damage and apply controls as needed.