Abba Dabba Do features gorgeous, deeply veined leaves that develop gold margins as they mature. Reaching 5 feet wide, this charismatic hosta will add motion and interest to any garden arrangement with its wavy edges and twisted leaf tips. Pale lavender flowers rise on scapes above the foliage in summer.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Abba Dabba Do'

Common Name: Abba Dabba Do Hosta

Garden Size: 24 inches tall by 48-70 inches wide; scape height 39 inches

Growth Rate: Moderate

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Large, slightly elongated, green to blue-green leaves with narrow yellow margins. The leaves are entirely green when they first emerge, and as they mature they develop yellow borders that widen with age. Mature leaves are deeply veined with wavy edges and slightly twisted tips.

Flowers: Pale lavender, tube-shaped flowers that grow on scapes above the foliage. Blooms early to mid summer.

Plant Origin: East Asia, primarily Japan and Korea. Most commercially available hostas are hybrids.

Wildlife Support: Hummingbirds and some bees enjoy the flowers. A favorite treat for our local deer.

Fertilizing: Apply compost in early spring before new growth emerges.

Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks to encourage new growth; trim back damaged or yellowing leaves as needed. Leave the leaves over the winter and wait until early spring to clean up.

ASPCA Toxicity flags (see their site for details): Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Uses: Ideal for shade gardens, woodland borders, and container plantings.

AHS Classification: II-5b (Large Leaved, Yellow Margined, Green to Blue Center)

Parentage: Sport of H. 'Sun Power'