Dusty blue leaves that tip up toward the sky comprise this elegant blue hosta. The dense blue foliage holds its color well into the season but gradually gives way to a brighter blue-green. In summer, lavender flowers soar on scapes above the foliage.

Scientific Name: Hosta 'Prairie Sky' PP 17309

Common Name: Prairie Sky Hosta

Garden Size: 14 inches tall by 36 inches wide; scape height 18-24 inches

Growth Rate: Moderate

USDA Zone: 3-9

Exposure: Partial to full shade

Water & Soil: Moist, well-drained soil

Habit (Form): Mounding

Foliage: Broad, heart-shaped, powdery blue leaves that grow in a tight clump. When mature, the leaves are corrugated and somewhat cupped. The blue coloring lasts well into the season but gradually gives way to a brighter blue-green.

Flowers: Pale lavender, tube-shaped flowers that grow on scapes above the foliage. Blooms mid to late 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: III-2 (Medium Leaved, Blue)

Parentage: Hybrid of (H. rupifraga x H. 'Maruba Iwa’) x H. ‘Blue Jay’