Giant leaves like shields or the shells of sea turtles comprise this big, frosty-blue hosta. Topped with near-white flowers mid summer, 'Blue Mammoth' possesses an imposing yet elegant presence in the garden.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Blue Mammoth'

Common Name: Blue Mammoth Hosta

Garden Size: 33 inches tall by 58 inches wide; scape height 30 inches

Growth Rate: Medium

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Enormous, heart-shaped, blue-green leaves with a quilted texture. The thick foliage is resistant to slugs.

Flowers: Tube-shaped, nearly white flowers with a hint of lavender that grow on scapes. The flowers barely peek out above this hosta's extra-tall foliage. Blooms 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: I-2 (Giant Leaved, Blue)

Parentage: Hybrid of H. sieboldiana