Presents
Our own unique Hosta Introductions
Hosta 'Invocation'
|
|
On the front cover of our catalog you will see a photo of our 2009 introduction of ‘Invocation’ guarded by Asta, the reigning Sheltie of the farm. We have been looking forward to the time when we would have enough of this white-bordered gold hosta to offer. The picture on the cover was taken in late spring while the leaf centers were still in their chartreuse stage. Properly sited, as the season progresses the centers turn yellow, then gold, then a brassy gold, while the borders turn from light cream to pure white. Having tested this hosta for the last several years, we find it to be entirely stable in expression and form. Like its parents, ‘Invocation’ attains a spread of about 40”. Individual leaves at maturity are about 11” by 7”. It is a good grower, forming a striking clump in just a couple seasons, but even as a yearling it provides a focal point. As with all our introductions, we offer our money back guarantee on your investment. We find best expression in a site with early morning sun and dappled shade thereafter. An exceptionally nice hosta! |
|
(‘Cynthia x Piedmont Gold’) |
|
Introductions are listed in alphabetical order
|
|
Some hostas exhibit a bold, demanding attitude in the garden, while others make their presence known in a more alluring, stately manner, requiring no fanfare. Such is the case with our 2004 introduction, 'Benediction.' As a matter of etymology, the Latin meaning of the word "benediction" is literally the "good word," which we feel aptly fits. This beautiful, shimmering gold ultimately forms a symmetrical, stately clump about 4' across and 22" high, while the leaf placement displays a pleasing, embricated effect. The leaves themselves are extremely uniform in size and shape. Distinctly ventricular with pronounced, impressed veining, the foliage has precisely cut, clean edging. As our picture indicates, a mature clump develops the same sort of precise puckering between veins. Chameleon-like, 'Benediction' emerges a pure golden chartreuse and then assumes its early summer metamorphosis, becoming a softly shimmering gold. Of added interest, a mature clump will occasionally exhibit leaves with dark green flares/streaks. Perhaps due to this tendency we already have at least one sport which we have identified for future introduction, as well as others we are evaluating. Everything about 'Benediction' is pleasing--clean, precise, uniform and stately with alluring, beckoning color quality for those shady, darker corners, or along a path to be viewed in evening light. While beautiful at any time of day, we are especially drawn to its softly shimmering presence as light fades, incanting the perfect benediction to a summer's day. |
|
(Sun Power X Cynthia) |
|
|
|
It is no secret to our hostaphile friends that we like golds and have made a great many crosses to produce quality hostas in this color line. We have been especially happy with former large type introductions like 'Streets of Gold' and 'Benediction.' Waiting in the wings are several others that are both stately and lovely. One of the best of these is our introduction of 'Cair Paravel.' Forming a large clump with a spreading habit, this cultivar will obtain a width of about 40". Individual leaves are in the area of 12" x 6". In essence, C.P. combines the best of both parents: large clump, rapid growth rate, and distinctive presentation. Strong in CYNTHIA'S genetics is the ability to produce beautifully wavy leaf edges. Additionally, the CYNTHIA line tends to be quite sun tolerant. Both these virtues are exemplified in 'Cair Paravel.' As the photo indicates, this wavy leaf edge is dominant. Several of the sibs showed this strength, but C.P. was the very best of them. The color is a different sort of gold than we have ever seen before. Not a yellow gold, and not a chartreuse-gold either. Rather than trying to find the right words for it, let the picture act as an explanation. Depending on the season, there is often a marbling effect, and if one looks closely, a muted cream-green edge. This is a gold with character and we should have enough to fill orders hopefully. As with all our own introductions, we guarantee your satisfaction. You will like 'Cair Paravel.' 'Cair Paravel:' An elegant name for an elegant hosta. |
|
(Sun Power X Cynthia) |
|
 |
'Extrovert' If you are looking for a specimen plant that is both unique and lovely--one that stands out from the crowd--we offer 'Extrovert' for your consideration. Yes, this is a green hosta, but not just "another" green hosta. This one is distinctive. Sizewise, our oldest clump is about 4' across, forming a distinct, rounded mound about 22" high. The parentage alone tells you that this will be a hosta with generous dimples and puckering. Admittedly, plenty of green hostas match this description so far, BUT this one is unique in that the beautifully dimpled leaves are convex in nature, as though you pulled the edges down and pushed the centers up. The color of the very rounded, heavy substanced leaves is difficult to describe--rather a steely-green hue with a satiny finish. Both the individual leaves and the clump as a whole are distinctive and most pleasing. Garden visitors have always commented on 'Extrovert' as it does stand out from the crowd. A mature clump is individualistic and has true impact. Even a young plant has good eye appeal. We grow about 600 varieties of hostas here and there is really nothing that we have found to compare with it. As a parent, this one is producing offspring with very intense puckering and the same "extroverted" effect. |
|
|
|
|
|
Streaked hostas are generally valued for their breeding ability: i.e. to produce variegated offspring. And in this regard ‘Fame Game’ has more than proven its value. Highly fertile, this hosta can be counted on to produce a large number of variegated kids. We have selfed it, used it with golds, blues and other predictably notable parents, like ‘Cynthia’. From the dozens of variegated offspring, we have several which are promising—especially some rugose golds with white streaking. The problem with most streaked hostas is that they are highly unstable and quickly revert to a solid form. With ‘Fame Game’, however, we have seen much greater stability than any other streaked parent we have. From the last dividing we did 4 years ago (now 5 clumps), every fan/eye has remained true, with only an occasional solid leaf on a full clump. As with all streaked hostas, it is best to divide them on occasion to preserve stability. Settled 4-year clumps here are about 30” across, with a pleasing mound habit. Stemming from the ‘C.T.G.’ parentage, mature leaves can become very rugose. The basic color is a blue-infused dark green; superimposed on this background one will find streaks and often large swaths of yellow, cream, white. Individual leaves are ovate in form, but becoming more rounded with maturity. We recommend this, our 2007 hosta introduction without hesitation. Pictured on the front of the catalog and on the web site. As with all our intros, ‘Fame Game’ carries our two year guarantee. |
|
(‘Christmas Tree Gala’ x ‘Donahue’s Piecrust’) |
|
|
|
While we have always had very good feedback about our hosta introductions, last season's reviews on 'Glad Rags' were exceptional, for which we are most gratified. The web site pictures give at least a partial idea of the positives of 'Glad Rags.' A well established clump will measure about 20" across and 14" tall, with a somewhat vaselike form, especially on younger plants. Leaves are semi-cupped, about 4" x 6" and crinkled with age. Substance is very heavy. Consequently, 'Glad Rags' takes a good deal of sun here without complaint. Leaves emerge chartreuse, then quickly turn color. Shade produces a chartreuse-gold border; semi-shade produces a clean, bright gold border; stronger sun ultimately transitions chartreuse to gold to ivory. The gold borders are extra wide, encasing an irregular swath of green center. The pattern is repeated on every leaf; yet no two leaves are exactly the same. Even a young plant is singular. An established clump is stunning. More expensive? Yes, but we make this guarantee: Grow it for two seasons, and if you aren't entirely pleased, just return the undivided clump to us and will refund the price of the plant plus postage.  |
|
('Sheer Bliss' X 'Blue Ox') |
|
|
|
We have grown on thousands of seedlings, looking for some top quality blues. In this one we feel that several criteria all came together: Deep, silvery-blue color, heavy substance, rugose leaf, pleasing mound shape and good growth rate. Growing in full sun in the field, the original seedling clump was 5 1/2' across. Individual leaves are about 8"x10", with beautiful puckering at maturity. Of very heavy substance, the leaves pucker distinctively with age and develop a rather undulating edge. Furthermore, this hosta exhibits good slug resistence. We have found its best color is developed when given some good morning sun. Its silvery patina lasts much longer than on most other blues. Strong, husky divisions. As a parent, 'Jotunheim' is producing large offspring with beautiful color, heavy substance and beautifully dimpled leaves. Increasingly popular.  |
|
|
|
|
|
Finding just the "right" name for this hosta proved difficult. Words like "large" just don't work here. This "animal" has garden names like "The Thing That Ate Chicago", "Bouncing Betty", "Bods Ominous" and "Man Eater"! To this beast we attribute the loss of 3 shovels, a John Deere riding mower, 2 garden tillers, 3 cats, 6 raccoons, a Guernsey cow and 2 little old ladies on a garden visit. Hence we give it wide berth when working close to it. It has been recommended that we spray it with Roundup once or twice a year just to keep it from hurting anyone. From the fore-going chicanery you may assume that "Jurassic Park" is HUGE when established, as well as vigorous in growth. Our original clump measures about 8 1/2' across even after taking divisions from it the last two springs. Leaves on well tended clumps can be up to 16" x 14". Of Sieboldiana background, this introduction has very heavy substanced green leaves which exhibit heavy tucks and puckers at maturity. It does well for us with strong morning sun and filtered shade thereafter. Very impressive through mid-season even in full sun. Due to its heavy substance, slugs have never been a problem--basically because it eats them! Give this one lots of space, space, space. It will "grow" on you... |
|
|
 |
|
(from seedling lines) |
|
|
|
We considered several seedling hostas as possible 2005 introductions, but couldn't quite make up our minds until we looked back over some pictures taken last summer. Then the choice became obvious. 'Lancelot', our pick for the year, grows steadfastly in a challenging situation--right next to 'Glad Rags.' The latter is a show stealer and our attention is always drawn toward it. However every time we walk past this bed, our glance eventually carries to 'Lancelot'. Not loud and brassy like, 'G.R.' but always making a steadfast statement with its dense, compact clump of blue leaves which exhibit a singularly strong silvery patina which is maintained far into summer. A mature clump measures about 24 inches across, with crown height of about 14 inches. Clump form is decidedly symmetrical and even. Foliage is very dense, and leaves are of heavy substance and distinctly pointed or 'lanced' in semi-elongated form. 'Lancelot' shows very good sun tolerance here. Our oldest clumps grow in 75% sun and show no scald. Since substance is very heavy, we encounter no slug problems as this hosta grows here. Another positive attribute is its vigorous growth rate. 'Lancelot' far outstrips both parents on increase. Our picture in this catalog and on our website gives at least a partial idea of its positive qualities. Supply is good, so we will be shipping double eye divisions at a minimum--maybe triples. We guarantee this hosta to please! (For future thought, we have a striking white centered sibling to offer in a couple years.) |
|
(Halcyon X Kikuttii) |
|
|
|
"THE BRIGHTEST GOLD IN THE SPRING GARDEN" Most "gold" hostas emerge in the spring with a greenish-chartreuse coloration, and we patiently wait over the course of the next several weeks for them to slowly assume hues of yellow/gold. BUT WHY WAIT so long for a hosta to "color up" when you can have an instant splash of bright gold with our 'Lemon Drop'? Always drawing the focus of early season visitors, this small hosta cultivar has been a focal point here. The audacity of its color draws one's attention from across the garden. In spite of our propensity to like the large hostas, 'Lemon Drop' has become a personal favorite here. Sizewise, a mature clump measures about 14" across and presents a gently mounded effect. Younger plants tend to be quite horizontal, giving a nearly spidery appearance. Nearly lanceolate in shape, mature leaves are marked by smooth, wavy undulations, tapering to a distinct, sharp point. Another point of interest with this rapid clumper is that a second flush of clean chartreuse-gold leaves developes in mid summer, giving a nearly 2-toned canopy effect. 'Lemon Drop' shows excellent early spring color even in deeper shade. In fact, we suggest planting this one in a shadier location so as to prolong the best effets of its color. Tuck it into an otherwise drab corner for instant spring effect. A wonderful companion for early woodland ephemerals. As a hybridizer's plant, 'Lemon Drop' produces a large number of golds in a wide variety of hues and sizes. |
|
|
|
|
|
'Pleasure Seeker' Forming a semi-vaselike clump ultimately about 30” in diameter, P.S. has a “finished” appearance even on a first year clump. The leaves are broadly lanceolate with a gentle arching effect. Color expression is steely blue with a strong patina. Once settled in, the leaves acquire a broadly undulating edge and a distinct “twist” at the leaf tip. One of the most distinctive matters about P.S. is its metallic patina, which persists from early through late season on the heavy substanced leaves. Since ‘PLEASURE SEEKER’ is a very strong grower, it can and should be placed in a shadier section of the planting to preserve its best expression. It multiplies rapidly, quickly forming a distinctive clump. Some hostas are a hot splash in the pan. P.S., on the other hand is distinctively serene, with a glowing finish which persists throughout the season. A true specimen. The low price reflects our supply, not the quality of the plant. Double eye divisions. |
|
(kikutii x ‘Halcyon’) |
|
|
|
With a mature clump measuring about 14" across and 8" high, this 'Shade Babe' has soft, smooth, creamy chartreuse hues. We prefer it in early morning sun and dappled shade thereafter. In stronger sun she takes on more of a creamy sulfur tone-also very nice. A late summer shower of lilac-lavender bloom is in perfect proportion to clump size. A flush of rebloom often follows later. Growth and increase are strong. This charmer is especially fine as a companion to small, intense blues (like 'Dorset Blue', 'Blue Moon') and bright golds, (like 'Golden Prayers' or 'Marilyn') and makes a splendid neighbor for painted ferns. Perfect for a smaller space where you want something special. Popular and rather limited. Nice double/triple divisions. |
|
|
|
|
|
'Shadowfax' A few seasons ago we observed an entire clump of 'Piedmont Gold' turn into a beautiful sport, the likes of which we had not seen before. 'Shadowfax', as we came to call this sport, is a melody of soft, creamy hues. In early spring the centers of the leaves are a smooth chartreuse, while the wide borders are a muted, golden cream. As the season progresses, the centers become a smooth, creamy gold and the borders turn to a soft ivory hue. Whether early, mid or late season, the colors are always soft and serene. In size, it is equal to 'Piedmont Gold', but the leaves are more distinctly rounded and puckered. A mature clump stands about 22" tall and spreads to about 4'. 'Shadowfax' seems to perform best with good early morning light and dappled shade thereafter for optimum color. This is one of those hostas which is totally unique in expression. In fact, we had thought of calling it 'Chameleon' due to its changing nature. Its soft, glowing hues always entice visitors for a closer look. Distinctive and lovely. |
|
(Sport of 'Piedmont Gold') |
Price: Sold out for 2009 due to popular demand! Please email for specific details on availability. |
|
|
Some years ago we made several crosses of Tokudama type golds onto large Sieboldiana type blues. Several interesting golds emerged, but one of the nicest was this seedling from Blue Mammoth X Golden Medallion. From its juvenile stage onward, 'Streets Of Gold' exhibited certain characteristics which only strengthened with age: 1. large, very round, gold leaves, 2. heavy substance, 3. strong puckering, and 4. very pleasing, rounded, mound-shaped clump. The individual leaves on established plants are about 8"x10," while a mature clump well grown can reach 4 feet across. The Tokudama type is strongly evidenced with its heavy substanced, round, puckered leaves, and the Sieboldiana heritage expresses itself in the size of leaf and clump. Like most golds, 'Streets Of Gold' emerges golden chartreuse, then quickly changing to an INTENSE GOLD which holds its color throughout the season. We suggest placing it in strong early morning light, followed by some dappled shade thereafter for best color. One of the determining factors for us which influences the introduction of a hosta seedling is the comments of garden visitors. And in the last three years, after moving this clump in from the field rows, 'Streets Of Gold' has continually drawn queries of, "When will this one be available?" We answer that question with, "In 2002!" |
|
(Blue Mammoth X Golden Medallion) |
|
|
|
This glowing hosta is a melody of fine qualities: Color, sheen, form and grace. Emerging midspring in glowing, creamy, chartreuse hues, the color changes gradually through the course of the season to that of a burnished golden chartreuse. One of its most appealing assets is the glowing sheen evidenced throughout the season. It reminds us of the beautiful tiffany finish of fine porcelain. Ultimately attaining a pleasing, semi-pendent mound of about 22" across and 16" high. Petioles have a distinctive pink midrib. The form is another matter which is pleasing to the eye. The elongated, semi-lanceolate leaves with their softly rounded ends rise from the center of the clump and then, ever so gracefully, arch gently downward. As with most hostas of this color, it is at its best given early morning sun, followed by dappled, high shade. A mature clump is a matter of distinctive grace and elegance. Very well received last year. For the hybridizer, 'Tiffany Tune' produces a high percentage of golds in a variety of hues.  |
|
|
|
