Hosta ‘Neptune’ …
The American Hosta Growers Association’s Hosta of the Year for 2023 is Hosta ‘Neptune.’ An impressive blue specimen with large wavy-edged leaves, it’s a cross by Hans Hansen that combines the qualities of Hosta ‘Maekawa’ × ‘Halcyon’ and Hosta ‘Salute.’
In spring, the rippled leaves are grayish blue but eventually turn more blue-green. The lanceolate leaves are sturdy and have some slug resistance.
Its cascading form displays well when planted on a ledge or in a container. Pale lavender flowers are produced on arching scapes in late summer and early fall.
Easy to grow and low-maintenance.
Hosta ‘Neptune’
• 2’ high and 4’ wide
• Pale lavender flowers in late summer
• Foliage: shades of blue with wavy edges
• Hardy in Zones 3-9
• Part or full shade
• Attracts hummingbirds
Hosta ‘Empress Wu’ …
The Proven Winners National Hosta of the Year for 2023 is Hosta ‘Empress Wu,’ often said to have the largest leaves on a commercially available Hosta.
It has an upright habit, forming clumps that can reach 5 feet tall and 8 feet wide.
The huge dark green, deeply veined leaves are sturdy and can measure more than 2 feet wide and long. Large leaves are formed as a young plant but the entire plant can take 5 years or more to achieve maximize size.
Pale lavender violet flowers appear on short scapes in July and August.
Prefers moist, rich, well-draining soil and partial or full shade.
An outstanding focal point that also attracts hummingbirds and tolerates black walnut trees.
Hosta ‘Empress Wu’
• 4-5’ high, 6-8’ wide with giant leaves
• Pale lavender flowers in July/August
• Foliage: blue-green then green
• Hardy in Zones 3-9
• Part or full shade
• Attracts hummingbirds
