H. ‘The Leading Edge’
Hosta ‘The Leading Edge’ is a registered cultivar () .
| Year registered | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Section class | II-5b (Large) |
Overview
Registered in 2002, 'The Leading Edge' is a large hosta cultivar arising from a self-pollinated seedling of *Hosta* 'Dorothy Benedict'. It is visually distinguished by its medium green, broadly ovate leaves with wide, heavily rippled margins of greenish yellow, and a slightly shiny surface on both sides.
In the Garden
This hosta reaches a mature diameter of 46 inches (116.8 cm) and a height of 33 inches (83.8 cm), with upright foliage and a moderate growth rate. It performs best in partial to full shade, typical of hosta-growing zones, and pairs well with ferns, heucheras, and other shade-tolerant perennials. Its substantial leaf substance and wide, rippled margins make it a strong textural accent in the border.
Care Notes
Water regularly to maintain even soil moisture, especially during dry periods. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth emerges. While the thick leaves offer some resistance, monitor for slugs and deer in vulnerable gardens.
Size and leaf
| Clump height | 33 in (83.8 cm) |
|---|---|
| Clump width | 46 in (116.8 cm) |
| Leaf length | 12.25 in (31.1 cm) |
| Leaf width | 9.6 in (24.4 cm) |
| Leaf | medium green with .5 to 2.25in (1.3 to 5.7cm) wide, greenish yellow, heavily rippled margins; slightly shiny on top; slightly shiny underneath; moderately corrugated |
| Flower scape height | 34–40 in (86.4–101.6 cm) |
| Notable characteristics | shiny green leaves with wide rippled yellow margins; good substance |
From the American Hosta Society Registry record.
Parentage
- Pod parent: F-1 seedling of H. 'Dorothy Benedict' — H. ‘Dorothy Benedict’
Similar cultivars
Other registered hostas in the same AHS section class (II-5b, large size):
- H. ‘Afternoon Delight’ (2003)
- H. ‘Arc de Triomphe’ (2000)
- H. ‘Band of Gold’ (1999)
- H. ‘Blue River’ (1998)
- H. ‘Yellow Flash’ (1997)
- H. ‘August Beauty’ (2009)
Related guides
Registration data: AHS Registry #5677