H. ‘Sweet William’

Overview

Registered in 2004, this large hosta cultivar originated as a seedling of *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict' with an unknown pollen parent. It is visually distinctive for its broadly ovate, blue-green leaves with white margins that exhibit unstable and variable creamy white streaking, combined with a slightly rippled leaf texture and glaucous bloom on the undersides.

In the Garden

*Hosta* 'Sweet William' forms a mound-like clump reaching approximately 48 inches (121.9 cm) in diameter and 20 inches (50.8 cm) in height, with a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, as is typical for blue-green hostas, and pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials that complement its large, textured foliage. Its substantial size makes it suitable as a specimen plant or for use in the middle to back of shaded borders.

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 advisable, as this cultivar's large leaves may be attractive to both pests.