H. ‘Wayside Blue’

Overview

Registered in 1989 by P. Ruh, this large, variegated sport of *Hosta* 'Tokudama' is distinguished by its cordate leaves with green margins and a blue-green center that fades to green as the season progresses. The leaf blade measures 10 inches (25.4 cm) long by 7.25 inches (18.4 cm) wide, with 14 vein pairs, and the plant forms a mound 15 inches (38.1 cm) tall and 25 inches (63.5 cm) in diameter.

In the Garden

'Wayside Blue' performs best in partial to full shade, where its leaf coloration remains most pronounced. Its large size makes it suitable for mid-border placement or as a specimen in woodland gardens; it pairs well with ferns, astilbes, and other shade-tolerant perennials. The scape reaches 19 inches (48.3 cm) in height, bearing pale lavender flowers in midsummer.

Care Notes

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, and apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as growth emerges. Standard slug and deer precautions are advisable, as with most hostas, though the thick, corrugated leaves offer some resistance to minor pest damage.