H. ‘Step Brother’

Overview

Registered in 2011, *Hosta* 'Step Brother' is a sport of *Hosta* 'Brother Stephan' distinguished by its giant, heavily corrugated mound of blue-green foliage. The leaves are broadly ovate with cordate bases, measure 12 inches (30.5 cm) long by 11 inches (27.9 cm) wide, and display 14 to 16 vein pairs with dark green, slightly rippled margins; the upper surface is dull, while the underside bears a dull glaucous bloom.

In the Garden

'Step Brother' forms a vigorous, mound-like clump reaching 30 inches (76.2 cm) in height and 40 inches (101.6 cm) in diameter, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical for blue-green hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that contrast its bold texture. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen or background plant in woodland gardens and large borders.

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; slug and deer damage may occur and should be monitored.