H. ‘Sookai’

Overview

Registered in 2002, *Hosta* 'Sookai' is a sport of the popular *Hosta* 'Sagae'. It is visually distinctive for its large, broadly ovate leaves that are blue-green with a grayish cast and heavily rippled, irregular pale yellow margins. The leaf surface is flat with a cordate base, and the plant produces 12 pairs of veins per leaf.

In the Garden

'Sookai' forms an upright, moderate-growing clump reaching 28 inches (71.1 cm) in height and 42 inches (106.7 cm) in diameter at maturity. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, and is suitable for borders, woodland gardens, or as a specimen plant. Its slightly smaller size and more ruffled foliage compared to 'Sagae' make it a good choice for mixed shade beds with ferns, heucheras, or other medium-to-large hostas.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are recommended, as the broad, textured leaves are attractive to both pests.