H. ‘Spartacus’

Overview

Registered in 2007, 'Spartacus' is a sport of *Hosta* 'Sea Gulf Stream' distinguished by its large, blue-green leaves with wide, heavily rippled yellow margins. The broadly ovate, domed leaves measure up to 12.5 inches (31.8 cm) long and 8 inches (20.3 cm) wide, with a dull upper surface and a glaucous bloom beneath, and feature 10 to 11 vein pairs.

In the Garden

This cultivar forms a dense, mound-like clump reaching 36 inches (91.4 cm) in diameter and 17 inches (43.2 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-leaved hostas, where the gold margins contrast well with darker companions such as ferns or *Heuchera*. Its large size makes it suitable as a specimen or in mixed shade borders, though it is not ideal for containers.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. Like many hostas, 'Spartacus' is susceptible to slug and deer damage; monitor regularly and use barriers or repellents as needed.